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Home My WebLink AboutAPA3203I GV 191.42 .A45 W575 1984 MASTER PLAN FOB THE PROPOSED WII.I.OW CREEK STATE RECREATION ABEA ACE 1332844 u u u u I : LJ 1-~\ I i L.J [ 1 ~- l 'i u r 1 u u 1 1 I , _,_, l l I : u u l ! ! .,_. I MAS~EB PLAN FOB ~HE PRO OSEDII WILLOW CREEK SU!I!E BECBEBION AREA Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation Alaska Department of Natural Resources Matanuska-Susitna Borough 1984 599 I .AitLIS Alaska Resources Library & Information Services Library Building, Suite Ill 3211 Providence Drive Anchorage, AK 99508-4614 ~OX 13. PAL,M'ER. Af;..ASKA 99645 • PHONE 745·4801' SO'R:OVGiii MANAG;E'R The Ma·t:.:g:n"s~a-$U;&;t:t;~na Boa:ough is p.le.as.ed t~o present the join-t pla~n.:i;;ng efio:rt between th.e Di.V'i.sion eyf Parks and the Borough e:J:l'titled tJ'l;6-nw:illo:w; Cre:ek Rec.rea:tianal Area Pl.an. " The :raorou9:h is w;,e~ ~-u;ch awa:t'e. of the need for incerera:sed outdoor re-e::::r;:eati,Ornal o.ppor-tu.ni ties and bet:ter ac:ee:ss to waterways.. · The D.ivis!i.on of Parks will manage the Willow Cre·ek State Re·c:reatiop A:r;"~~a..l w(hicb com~rts•e;.s 2'40 ae::res of Boro:u~h and State lanas ., N..ea-r ly a.Ll outd'Qo;r r:ecreaticmal actiwit~ie·s '·11 b I . '""·t d· 'th' t:lb-1"' .,, t t '·t:l;;. th W:l .. · -e perl!tUt.:: ·:e -_·· w1 · :t:n -;.,.,e parJ'(; cons;J.s·e·n. w:1.. ·u -····e ov:er-a.ll g,oa:Ls of the ar·e-a.. · · Once the road is b-q,i,lt, fishing enthusia.sts" hike·rs,. nature lovers, snow machiners, and others will have new areas. to explore. 'This plan is just an example of what can be done within our Borough to increase the recreational potential o£ Alaskan lands. · sincerely, G~~~u--- Gary Thuriow . Borough Mq.nager LJ n n n u i] n ; I u J [J [1 u r 1 I r w I' ' ! ' u r ' I ; G r : I , L..' r· L.. r; Li u r' j I u [ ; i I !..,.... DIVISION OF PARKS AND OUTDOOR RECREATION To the Reader: : BILL SHEFFIELD, GOVERNOR . 225A CORDOVA STREET i ANCHORAGE, ALASKA 99501 I PHONE: (907.) 276·2653 The area surrounding the confluence of Willow Creek and ~he Susitn~ River has long been recognized as a significant recreational attra¢tion. It has•all the prerequisites to form a recreational magnet for generatiqns of Alaskans: clear waters teaming with annual salmon runs as well as resident sport fish populatiops, the tranquility and beauty of a mixed spruc~-birch forest, easy accessibili'ty for a majority of Alaskans, and the open spaces characteristic of Alaska. Territorial officials appreciated the streamjs potential when they nominated it for park status during the 1950s. Many others have echoed similar sentiments over the years. Recreational pressures have Aow grown to the point that active management of this area is essential. ! I This master plan for th~ proposed Willow Creek State Red:-eation Area reflects a yeoperative effort towards designating the lower stream for public use. The state and Matanuska-Susitna Borough, the two principal l~ndowners,'have worked together to develop this plan, backed by widespread public participation and support during the planning program. The plan calls for the legislative designation of a 3,440 acre unit of the stlJ'te pa.rk system, utilizing lands owned by the borough and state. Fatilities to be built include a road to the stream's confluence with the Susitna River, where'a boat launch, campgrounds, and an extensive trail,network opening large segments of new fishing waters would be constructed. Neo/ summer and winter ·recreation opportunities will be provided to meet regional demand and to help alleviate recreational pressures placed on other areas. Sincerely, BBLE -OF '00l\l~El\T~S ;11'8 ~ \ÔlF FIGI;J'RîES :2 S:~A~'Y 3 J.f'NmR0'llnJCTI0l1 :5 tl TNAtrtùR!A;t lf:'~ONMB\N'i.t' 9 :2 ;(}ga;~l\UR1<\'L tE'NV•FR-ùNNIE.N'l' ·a,g 3 R"EGIONA'L 1 L:C.'DGA:L R ·ECR.EA T-ION Z3 4 V:ISITOR 'PRiWE:'R'ENGt:S 1 :RRC:REKTION.AL :ntMAND :~9 5 ANAL'Y'SI-S 1\ND ;EVALU~TION 3"5 6 GENE:'R'AL Rt:CGMM ENDATION'S '43 7 IMPLEMENTA TJON -6l APPENDICES 6:5 A. MODEL 'LAND -MANAGEMENT AG1tERMF.NT 'AMONG TffE :STATE OF ALA-BKA 1 D1VIS10N OF P:A1HŒ 1 AND THE "NIAT ANUSKA -:SUSITNA BOROUGH B. MODEL ENABLING LEGISLATION C. PUBLIC :MEETlNG SUMMARŒS D. OPIN'ION SURVEY RESULTS 'Bl:BLIOGRA1'HY 585 LIS~ OF FIGURES il. .Iha.GŒ1:ion Ma]i)s ''J .2 . ~manning JP.ror:ess :8 iL iSurfîai-al \Get:>lng:Y -rto 4. Willow 'Or:eek Dis:charge 1 ±978-J::9J1il lJ. 5 . ;Dxai:rra-g:e :Pa1:ter..ns a.~ '6. 'Willmw Gre:ek Tlomip.lain 14 7. SoHs: :Snitèibili~y -far Road :Subgrade and 'Highwa_y I.acat~on 1'5 B. J>arks Jiighway Traffic Vdlumes .Zl ·9.. Land O.wnership 22 TO . .Regional R:ecre-ation Areas 2it D . ;,vliHow :Cre"Ek s_part Fishil'l:g : Harv:est :and Bff0rt1 19?7-:19Hl 2 :5 12 . lActi.viti:m; -11hat Soutlrc-entral P:a:rticü>-ant~ ·woultl I.ike To Bn 'More 'Often -:3D .13. ·Pavori.te .:'Southcenï:r:al D.utttoor Recrea- tiomll .A"ctivities 31 1~. ::Soüthnenlr-al Preferenc·es 'lor 'State Par-k ;A-cquisition 1 Devel:qpmen:t -and "Main- :t-encm::ce :3.1 :15. :D:e"sincil P:e:-atures ln ,. <Soutrrc:entral t'O.ut- fof-Town 3:œ:I:ratinn a~rea~s ~ - I6-. illlesir..en :Peatur-es :in :.Sauttmentr-:al ~om- mrunit;y ;R:e.t:r.eation 'Ar.eas '32 r7. J>qp.tilation Forec.asts '3"3 18. Boundary Analysis 39 19a~ "Park ~Unit 'Zones 44 .19.b. Willow Creek SRA Zones 45 ,20. General Devela,pment Plan :46 21. Maintenance and Operations tR.e:quire- ments 50 22. Non-Facilities Recommendations 51 23. Facilities Recommendations 54 24. Phasing Recommendations >=62 2 u u r 1 u r 1 L.: r .i , I u u r 1 u r : u u SUMMARY This management plan provides general guidance and specific recommendations for the management and development of the proposed Willow Creek State Recreation Area (WCSRA). The proposed park unit is lo- cated in the Susitna River basin, accessible via the Parks Highway to the regional popu- . lation centers of Anchorage, Palmer, Wasilla, and Eagle River (see Figure 1, page 7). Willow Creek is presently the scene of inten- sive year-round recreational activity. Sum- mer recreation centers on sport fishing. Alaska Department of Fish & Game records indicate that Willow Creek supports some of the greatest sport fishing effort in the Cook Inlet region, with 29,011 angler days of effort in 1980. (An angler day is defined as any portion of a 24-hour period during which a person is engaged in fishing. ) King salmon, pink salmon, chum salmon, and silver salmon are sought at various times during the season. Resident sport fish species include rainbow trout and arctic grayling (see Figure 11, page 25). Winter recreation consists of dog mushing I snow- machining, and cross-country skiing. These 3 activities are practiced on the area's exten- sive wetlands· and a network of trails. Legislative establishment as a unit of the Alaska State Park System ' is recommended (see Appendix B). The prqposed boundaries of the recreation area encompass lands owned by the State of Alaska and the Matanuska- Susitna Borough. A centra] recommendation of this plan is the implementation of a land management agreement betw~en the state and the borough (see Appendi;x A) which will allow management of borough-owned lands by the Division of Parks. Willow Creek State Recreation Area will be managed as a year-round i recreation area I centering on the activities, which presently occur on the site. A key recommendation regarding sport fishing is :the establishment of an active fisheries enha~cement program 1 designed to provide an additional harvest of 6 I 000 coho salmon and 6 I 000 king salmon. This program will result : in an estimated 42 I 000 . angTer---days --of --a,ddftional fishing opportunity (see page 51). Facilities proposed for WCSRA include a four .mile access road leading from the Parks Highway to the mouth of Willow Creek I a boat launch 1 vehicle campgrounds 1 walk-in camping units I day-use parking I and an extensive trail network (see Figure 20 I page 46). The public has p_articipa~ed __ dur~ng every 4 phase in the formulation of this plan. Four public meetings and an opinion survey have provided valuable information and ideas which have often been converted directly into recommendations (see Appendices C and D) . The plan has also been reviewed by the Matanuska-Susitna Borough's Planning Com- mission and Assembly. l J :l n l l n n ', l n 1 i. 1 J n l n ' " L u ( : Li r ~ L r : l [ : L L I i I ' L r ·, ·, I I , ·IN~BODUC~ION. Purpose Willow Creek has long been recognized as an outstanding recreational resource, with abundant salmon runs, resident sport fish species, and extensive uplands and· wetlands suitable for a range of outdoor activities. As a result of recent rapid population growth throughout south central Alaska, recreational use of Willow Creek has in- creased dramatically. In recognition of the stream's importance as a regional recreational resource and of the need for active manage- ment brought about by increased levels of use, this management plan provides a frame- work for the establishment, management, and development of a state park unit at this location. Goals and Objectives The state's constitutional and statutory mandates pertaining to the management of the Alaska State Park System are summarized by the following goals, derived from the Alaska State Park Slstem: Statewide Frame- war k Plan, publishe in 1982: 5 0 To provide for the outdoor recreational needs of present and future generations of Alaskans and visitors to the state through the acquisition, development, and management of the units of the state park system. 6 To preserve and protect areas of na- tural significance as units of the state park system for the benefit of present and future generations. 0 To preserve and interpret Alaska's cultural heritage through the acqUisi- tion, development, and management of 0 state park system units. · To protect and· manage areas of signi- ficant scientific or educational value as state park system units. 0 To provide support to the state tourism industry through the acquisition, devel- opment, and management of state park system units for residents and visitors to Alaska. In addition to these statewide goals, a num- ber of objectives relating specifically to Willow Creek have been identified, which this plan seeks to fulfill: 0 To analyze present· and anticipated de- mands for public recreation at Willow Creek and determine the . appropriate role of the Division of Parks in satis- fying those demands. 0 To determine specific boundaries for a Willow Creek State Recreation Area, and , recommend a procedure for the estab- lishment of such a state park unit. 0 0 To provide general guidelines for the management of recreational activities within the state park unit. To make specific recommendations, in priority order, for the development of recreational facilities within the paten- tial unit. , Study Area I ' 1 The study area is a two· mile by five mile corridor extending from the existing Willow Creek State Recreation Site downstream to Wil\ow Creek's confluence with the Susitna ! RtVier (see Figure 1, page 7). Regional Setting ; Willow Creek is centrally located in south- 6 central Alaska, accessible to a majority of the state's residents. Anchorage, 71 high- way miles south of Willow Creek, and the Matanuska-Susitna Borough together place 250,000 residents within two hours traveling time of Willow Creek. The southcentral region possesses outstand- ing recreational resources and opportunities. The area is dominated by the Susitna River, which is framed by the Talkeetna and Alaska Mountain ranges before terminating in the saltwater of Cook Inlet. The surrounding area has several designated recreational ':l~~as, including Nancy Lake State Recreation Area. Large areas of the Susitna basin and nearby Matanuska River basin are undesig- nated but de facto recreation areas, includ- ing Hatcher Pass and several westside Susit- na River tributaries accessible only by plane or riverboat. These areas are often located on large blocks of limd owned by the State of Alaska or Matanuska-Susitna Borough. Planning Process Because the State of Alaska and the Matan- uska-Susitna Borough both own large a- mounts of land within the study area, a joint planning approach has been employed, . w~th representatives of both governmental JUriS- dictions forming the planning team. Figure 2, page 8, illustrates the planning process, with public meetings and other important stages highlighted. 1, J n n n n n n n n t J l Figure 1. LOC.UION MAPS t-i-cot l C OC E-t]{ F a irbank s • ~ 1 GlJLp OF ALI>S<6!> Lower Susitna Valley 7 Figure ~.PLANNING PROCESS Assess recreational preferences and demand. g 0 Analyze and Formulate I) I[) management 1/ synthesize and development information. ·:· alt~raatives. Inventory natural .and cultural resources. Identify I) study goals: and objectives. ~ ~ .0. 6 ~ 6 · Analyze ~ <::> ·.0 6 11ecreational patterns, <::>-0. trends, and issues. .0. .0 6 -0 ~ 0 ¢¢¢¢¢¢¢¢¢¢¢ 8 Assess Review and select II l) preferred and approve recommendations. alternative. ~ -6 0 0 .o· 6 ~ <::> ~ <:'> .0 0 .0. ~ ¢ ¢ Implement plan (future). 6 .0 .c. ~ ~ .c. 0 SOurce: Alask8. Division of Parks : J l 1 : J l l l I •J l n 1 ~ J n r') : i l J ...... 1 Climate -NATURAL· ENVIRONMENT The study area's climate is typical of the Susitna basin, exhibiting transitional char- acteristics between the continental zone to the north, west, and east, and the maritime conditions to the south. Temperature ranges between -49°F. and 86°F. , with a July average daily maximum of 70°F. and a Janu- ary average daily minimum of 2°F. Yearly precipitation averages 24 inches, with July, September, and October each aver- aging more than three inches. May averages less than one inch of rain. Snow accumulation at Willow Creek is more typical of the continental areas. Total snowfall at Willow and Talkeetna (30 miles north) averages 106 inches total annual snowfall, compared to 70 inches in Anch- orage. Prevailing winds reflect the general north- south orientation of the Cook Inlet-Susitna basin. Winter winds are from the north, bringing cold temperatures from the interior 9 of the state. Summer winds prevail from the south, originating in the large oceanic waters of Cook Inlet and the Gulf of Alaska. Summer winds, therefore, moderate the summer season high temperatures. Geology, Topography The Susitna and Matanuska basins are glacial landscapes, with U-shaped valleys and moraine ridges. The area consists of gravel alluvium overlaid by silt, deposited by streams as glaciers receded (see Figure 3, page 10). Ground water studies conducted nearby suggest that bedrock is approxi- mately 200 feet deep. Two distinct zones comprise the study area's topography. Willow Creek travels through a broad, flat alluvial plain. This lowland topographic zone is approximately one mile wide and is directly influenced by the Willow Creek drainage, having been . formed by the deposition of water-bound sand and silt. Upland benches are the second topographic type. They are situated to the north and south of Willow Creek, paralleling the stream Figure 3. SURFICIAL GEOLOGY Legend s = swamp deposits t = terrace alluvium ow = outwash alluvium aa ::: active floodplain alluvium ab = ''abandoned'' floodplain alluvium 0 . .5 1 mile 8ouroe: u.s. Geolo«!oa!Bunoy 10 and set back an average distance of one-half mile. These benches are elevated an aver- age 50 feet above the streambed lowland. Steep bluffs, often with 50% slopes, connect upland and lowland. A natural levy borders much of Willow Creek's streambed. This topographic feature is several feet above the stream and typi- cally 300 feet wide. It has formed as high waters have periodically deposited silt and debris along the stream fringes. Hydrology, Drainage Willow Creek is a Susitna River tributary which drains an area of the southwestern Talkeetna Mountains totaling 250 square miles. From its head in Summit Lake, ap- proximately 5, 500 feet in elevation, Willow Creek travels 35 miles before contributing its waters to the Susitna River at elevation 100 feet. Mean discharge has ranged between 430 and 599 cubic feet per second since 1978 (see Figure 4, page 11). Upstream of the study area, Willow Creek is restrained by steep banks and canyons. Upon entering the lowland study area, the stream channel is free to migrate back and forth within a broad alluvial plain, as evi- denced by the large number of abandoned meander channels (see Figure 5, page 12). These abandoned channels are slowly being filled in by the land as vegetation invades their fringes and begins the process of eutrophication. During flood conditions, the old channels serve an important function by holding and carrying away excess waters . 11 The lowlands have a complex surface drain- age system. Small drainageways carry run-off into Willow Creek or recharge the area's extensive wetlands. Shirley Creek, the largest of the secondary drainages within the study area, originates in the network of small lakes south of Willow Creek. Accord- ing to Department of Fish and Game biolo- gists, Shirley Creek provides important fisheries habitat. Figure 4. APPROXIMME WILLOW CREEK DISCHARGE{ 2000~---------------------------------, 'd 1500 i'd ;jl::l 00 _t::fd ... co .s~ . 8. 1000 li:l+> C!J:B ~i roo 82 H A 500 80 D J F M J WATER YEAR (Oct. thru Sept.) • derived by adding discharges from Willow Creek and Deception Creek gaging stations Source: Corp& of Engineers Figure 5. DRAINAGE PATTERNS Legend -• ••-prJ mary drainage channel -•••-secondary intermittent drainage channels 0 . .5 l mile Bouroe: U .8. Geolo«<oall!urfe:r 12 Approximately one-half mile upstream of the Willow Creek mouth, a small delta has formed. The stream channel splits into three separate branches . At the present time, the middle mouth is navigable by riverboats while the north and south mouths are obstructed by debris or shallow waters. The gravel bars and banks of Willow Creek are littered with uprooted trees and other debris , sometimes forming impassable log jams. This indicates that the stream is capable of causing heavy damage to adjacent areas during high water conditions or floods. The flood plain is depicted in Figure 6, page 14. Some of the debris is the product of the gradual erosion and undercutting of banks as the stream migrates to and fro. Soils On the upland benches overlooking Willow Creek from the north and south, Nancy silt loam is the predominant soil class. This soil is suitable for a range of recreational uses and development activities, due to its level slope and well-drained substratum. The natural levy immediately adjacent to Willow Creek is made up of Susitna soils. These sandy and silt learns are also capable of supporting a range of activities, although a limitation is the danger of occasional flood- ing. Large areas of Salamatof peat soils are present in the study area, located behind the Susitna soils adjacent to the stream. Salamatof soils are very poorly drained, often standing in water. Recreational en- joyment suffers due to this constraint, which also increases the cost and difficulty 13 of constructing facilities (see Figure 7, page 15). Vegetation Two distinct vegetative communities are present in the Willow Creek corridor: mixed forest of white spruce/paper birch, and poorly drained muskegs. These vegetation patterns are the result of soils, drainage, topography, and past cutting practices. On the upland areas, the climax species is white spruce. It is infiltrating the uplands south of Willow Creek as the earlier succes- sional species of birch, aspen, and balsam poplar have reached maturity and have begun declining. Black spruce is another climax species, found on northern-sloping hills and the poorly drained fringes around wetlands. The extensive wetlands north and south of Willow Creek are made up primarily of peat soils with a thick layer of sphagnum moss on the surface. Numerous small sur- face drainageways feed into the wetlands. These drainages are typically fringed with a thick understory of willow and alder. Fish and Wildlife Resources Much of the existing recreational use of Willow Creek is directed at its rich fish and wildlife resources. Four of the five Pacific salmon species are present in Willow Creek at various times during the summer se9,son. Resident fish species important to sport fishermen include arctic grayling and rain- bow trout. Important land animals include moose and beaver. Figure 6. WILLOW CREEK FLOODPLAIN ... - .... Legend 1 • ' ' "t • • ' " "_. flood. way fringe -*':.: :: ... :·,:· ... stream channel flood way extent of 100 year flood ~:·~~,-.S}:./:>~ - flood way fringe 0 . .5 1 mlle Sou rce: U.S . Army Corps of Engineers 14 Figure 7. SOILS: SUITABILITY FOR ROADSIDE SUBGRADE AND HIGHWAY LOCATION Legend .......... goo d ----fair poor 0 . .5 1 mile Sour ce : Boll Conservation Service 15 Salmon. King, or chinook, salmon are the first anadromous species to enter Willow Creek, typically arriving in mid-June and having spawned and died by the end of July. A 1978 survey performed by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game esti- mated total escapement into the Willow Creek system to be 2000 fish, of which 800 split off into the Deception Creek drainage. The survey showed that most spawning activity took place in a three-mile stretch located several river miles upstream of the study area. The preferred water for spawners was between 1. 0 and 2. 2 feet deep, velocity between 1. 5 and 4. 8 feet per second, and with gravel size between 1. 9 and 5. 5 inches in diameter. · Because these conditions are not generally found in the stream as it flows through the study area, fewer spawning nests were located. However, this lower river stretch does appear to serve an impor- tant function as rearing habitat. The 1978 survey found that juvenile (fry) king salmon densities in this stretch were the highest in the Willow Creek mainstem, with higher densities occurring only in tributaries. Pink, or humpback, salmon enter Willow Creek in large numbers in the even-num- bered years. The 1978 escapement is esti- mated to ~·have numbered 220,000, while odd-number~d " years have been estimated to receive only 10% of that amount. This odd/ even fluctuation has been known to reverse ... itself, for unknown reasons. Pinks enter Willow Creek late in July and have completed spawning by early September. According to the 1978 study, this species prefers a water depth between 0. 5 and 2. 4 feet, water 16 velocity of 2. 4 feet per second, and gravel size between 0 . 8 and 2. 6 inches. These conditions are common in lower Willow Creek as it passes through the study area. Twen- ty-seven percent of all mainstem pink salmon spawning occurs downstream of the Parks Highway, according to the 1978 study. Chum, or dog, salmon are present in Willow· Creek from mid-July to late August, often choosing the slack waters of sloughs and old meander channels for spawning. Eleven percent of chum salmon spawning occurs below the Parks Highway bridge. Silver, or coho, salmon utilize Willow Cr e e k in small numbers. 1978 escapement in the mainstem was estimated to be less than 50 fish, while Deception Creek was judged to have an escapement of approximately 150. Trout and Grayling. Rainbow and a r ctic grayling are present in Willow Creek in sufficient numbers to support a substantial sport fishery. Little is known about the habitat and life cycle considerations of these species in Willow Creek. However, grayling are generally known to inhabit the stretches of water above the study area. Rainbows are dispersed throughout the Willow Creek system. Moose. Moose inhabit the entire Susitna River basin. During summer, when browse · is available in the higher elevations, many moose will migrate into the Talkeetna Moun- tains foothills to the east of the study area. As winter approaches, moose will move down into the lowlands, where milder conditions and more plentiful browse can be found. .... .., .., .., .., A 1978 moose habitat analysis by the Soil Conservation Service for the nearby pro- posed new capital site concluded that the area had only marginal moose browse. Available browse was heavily utilized. In some cases, plants were d~caying due to over-browsing. These conditions can also be found in the Willow Creek corridor, where much of the native vegetation is too mature for suitable browse. Nonetheless, because of the study area's natural character and its typical riparian species of alder and willow 17 found adjacent to the stream, the Willow Creek corridor provides valuable moose habitat. Beaver. Beaver inhabit all the waterways of the study area. Dams, lodges, and browsed trees can be found on Willow Creek, Shirley Creek, the Susitna River, and other un- named drainages. As beavers take trees adjacent to flowing water, the soil binding action of the roots is lost. Bank erosion and stream course changes conceivably can result . r : I I J I u u r 1 u II I I l . \.....1 '1 u rr I I LJ r 1 u u u r 1 u u 2 CUL~UBAL ENVIBONMEN~ Prehistory Cook Inlet's earliest inhabitants probably arrived approximately 8000 years ago. Two sites -on Turnagain Arm and on the Matan- uska River -are known to have been occu- pied shortly after. Artifacts from these sites are closely related to those found on the Alaska Peninsula and are similar to those of early hunters in Alaska's interior and Brooks Range. Between 8000 and 4000 years ago, there was an unexplained lack of habitation, and sites dating from those times are extremely rare. Between 3000 and 4000 years ago, the Cook Inlet area was reoccupied by hunters of sea mammals, almost certainly related to modern Eskimos. Occupation was relatively rare in the upper inlet where marine resources are not plentiful but was relatively common in the rich marine environment of Kachemak Bay. Over time, these marine mammal hunters adapted to the environments of the upper inlet and concentrated on salmon and moose. 19 At an unknown time in the relatively recent past, Athapaskan Indians replaced the Eski- mo populations, for· unknown reasons. Set- tlements have been documented :in the Nancy Lake State Recreation Area, located 10 miles • south of Willow Creek. A small site of unknown significance has been located near Willow Creek. 1 Based upon a preliminary assessment by th~ State Office of History and Archaeology, • there is a . possibility that other areas wit~in the Willow . Creek corridor were settled by Athapaskans. History Russians first explored the Coo~ Inlet coun- try in 1791. By the mid-ninetee!nth century, a trading settlement, Knyk, had grown up near the mouth of the Knik River. Following the United States purchase of Alaska in 1867, the trading posts at Kny;k and other locations supported increasing 1 numbers ·of gold prospectors. Mining was a strong impetus ;for the ex- ploration of the Willow Creek basin. Placer claims were first staked in the basin in 1897, followed one year later by the establishment of the Willow Creek Mining District (for the purpose of recording claims). Placer activ- ity in the district peaked in 1904-05 and began declining shortly afterwards. Lode (hard rock) claims were first staked in 1906. This type of mining has continued sporadi- cally up to the present time. An early trail leading into the mining district passes through the study area. The Lucky Shot .Trail b~gins at a Susitna River landing approximately· 1500 feet south of the Willow Creek mouth and roughly parallels Willow Creek as it travels east into the Talkeetna Mountains. Looal, Regional Economy Willow is a loosely defined, unincorporated community generally considered to include the• area from Mile 64 (Nancy Lake) to Mile 72 (Willow Creek) of the Parks Highway and the first fourteen miles of the Hatcher Pass . Road (to the school bus turn around). There are more than 600 voters registered in the . local precinct. Civic organizations • include the Willow Area Civic Organization (WACO) and the Willow Community Council. The Willow economy is diverse. Employment within the community area includes . services, government, and retail sales. Forty-six percent of Willow's workers are employed locally, with the remainder being employed 20 elsewhere within the borough (22%), in Anchorage (14%), or elsewhere (19%). Recreationists visiting Willow Creek contri- bute to several local businesses, including riverboat charter operations, a campground, lodge/motel, service stations, grocery, and prepared food stores; The regional economy is similar to Willow's. Construction, government, and services employ large numbers of borough residents. The borough also is home to large numbers of workers commuting into the metropolitan Anchorage area. Circulation, Transportation Within the study area, Willow Creek is bridged by the Parks Highway at Milepost 71. 2 (72 miles to Anchorage, 286 to Fair- banks) . The highway provides almost all access to the area. See Figure 8, page 21, which shows Parks Highway traffic volumes at a point one-half mile south of the Willow Creek bridge. The Hatcher Pass Road intersects the Parks Highway near the Willow Creek bridge, providing easterly access into the Talkeetna Mountains along with the same alignment as the old Lucky Shot Trail . The community is· served by a high quality gravel airport. There is one scheduled air carrier. Recreationists are known to use the airport as a means of access to Willow Creek, located one-quarter mile away. Th.e Alaska Railroad traverses the area. No scheduled stops are made although whistle stops allow recreationists access to the stream. n n r-. , I l j n L_ J n ~ j n l J n I I ' ' n n l J r ! I i L-1 r : u (' 1 ( ! 1....1 r ' LJ r 1 I i u f l :....; u u r I i Figure 8. PARKS HIGHWAY ~BAFFIC VOLUMES M WILLOW, 1980 6000 f1l r1 5000 0 la c;! 4000 . . B 3000 ~ I 2000 1000 0 MON!rHS Legend * 10 peak annual days --•Average Annual Daily Traffic (AADT) e Average Monthly Daily Traffic (AMDT) SOurce: Alaska Department or Transportation and Public Facilities ·· .... 21 Land Ownership Most of·· the land within the ltudy area is publicly owned. The· .Matapuska-Sushna Borough :and the State of Alaska own large blocks of land west of the Parks Highway. The area around the Parks Highway/WiUow Creek junction is privately own~d. Upstteam of the Parks Highway I the jwillow Creek State Recreation Site is a 240 acre parcel· surrounded by private lands (~ee Figure 9 1 page 22). Ownership of the s\Ibsurface has I been retained by the State of A~aska. i i I r· '~ ·~· • . ,. ·. · ... ~ '•[ . .· .. l Figure 9. LAND OWNERSHIP "-· •... ;;:r Lege nd 1•1•1•1 borough a tate .... ----. priva te ' 1 J 1 1 1 1 1 1 sta.te pa.rk ~ ~ O. .5 l mlle 22 r l ! i i i ......., u ( l , I I : u u L L ! l I i w r 7 LJ r ' u u r , I i ··.·3 -: .. REGIONAL, LOCAL RECRE.UION Regional Recreational Opportunities and · Pro- viders Matanuska-Susitna Borough. Organized as a second class borough in 1964 I the Matanus- ka-Susitna Borough has parks and recrea- tional powers which permit it to levy taxes I maintain a staff I and designate areas ··for recreational purposes. The borough is working to ensure that public access to recreational areas is maintained I particularly along existing and historical trails. It does not maintain an active park operations staff I nor does it actively operate any recreation areas. State of Alaska. The major provider of recreation areas and opportunities in the region is the State of Alaska 1 through the Division of Parks. Figure 10 1 page 24 1 shows the state park units in the Matanuska District. Willow Creek State Recreation Site is a 240 acre park unit located at the Decep"" tion Creek/ Willow Creek confluence. Most of the unit's area is located north of Willow Creek and is therefore inaccessible by road. Existing use at the site includes camping I 23 picnicking I and some sport fishing. How-' ever I sport fishing is limited because most of the site's stream frontage is above the Deception Creek mouth and therefore closed by regulation to the taking of salmon. Nancy Lake State Recreation Ar~a. Nancy · Lake State Recreation Area is located eight miles south of Willow Creek. ' Its 22 000 ' , acres of lakes I ridges I and lowlands provide . a range of opportunities for quiet I peaceful recreation in a natural setting. , Facilities at Nancy Lake include campgrounds 1 picnic areas I canoe trails I upland trails for hiking I skiing I snowmachining 1 and dog sledding. The recently published Nancyi Lake State Recreation Area Master Plan r 1ecommends a number of improvements for the :area. Independence Mine State Historic Park. Independence Mine State Hist0ric Park is located· within the popular $atcher Pass area. The park was established to com- m.emo;rate the area's rich history as a mining d1stnct and to preserve some of the original buildings and artifacts of that era. Most· of the mountainous area surrounding the his- Figure 10. REGIONAL RECREATION AREAS Legencl state game refuges ------'•:'state park units e non-state recreation areas, campgrounds studyarea .~ 1 J 1 o. 6. 12miles Sources: Alaska De partment of Fish a n d Game Al&e k& Division of hrka ~t-•.{~l~ç~,~--~.,~_PJ~I~-~.<--.. ~-~I~R~--~c --~QTI~~,~-~A~ .. ~l~~i~t~,~ .. ~.~-~1-'ft~C~;~. •;~,[~f>~--~-~)b~~~-~-. 24 u L I 1 w L L r 1 L r ' lJ r 1 LJ r 1 L.J r 1 I toric park is owned by the State of Alaska. It receives year-round recreational use, par- ticularly during the winter season, when skiers and snowmachiners converge. Popular summertime activities include hiking, moun- tain climbing, and berrypicking. City of Houston. The City of Houston owns and operates a campground bordering the Little Susitna River and the Parks Highway, located 15 miles south of Willow. Private Sector. Several privately operated recreational facilities are located within the vicinity. The Willow Island Drive Inn is situated at the northwest corner of the Parks Highway /Willow Creek intersection. Facilities include parking, boat launch, trailer storage area, and camping units. Shore fishing is popular along the area's Willow Creek frontage. Susitna Landing is a privately owned and operated boat launch located at the Susitna River/Kashwitna River confluenc·e, 11 high- way miles north of Willow Creek. From Susitna Landing, boaters travel to points north and south, including the Yentna River, Kroto Creek, and Alexander Creek. Willow Creek Sport Fishing Most recreationists visiting Willow Creek are attracted to the stream by its sport fishing opportunities. Willow Creek hosts significant runs of king salmon, chum salmon, and pink salmon. A small run of silver salmon and year-round populations of rainbow trout and arctic grayling are also sport fishing attrac- tions. See Figure 11, page 25 for a histor- ical summary of fishing effort and harvest at Willow Creek. Figure 11. WILLOW CREEK SPORT FISHERY HARV_EST, 1977-1982 Legend ·---·----coho salmon --'--silver salmon =="--= rainbow trout ..................... total king salmon (includes jacks) ·------grayling .11111111111 pinksalmon E-i rJ.l ~ ~ li1 25,000 ---........-----r.......:.~-.----,----.---, 20,000 15,000 10,000 5,000 . ····:···.····················· ~:~t' 0 1981 1982 1977 1978 1979 1980 Source: Alaska Department of Fish and Game 26 Willow Creek waters open for king salmon fishing stretch from the mouth to the Parks Highway bridge. Other salmon species may be taken legally from the mouth up to the Deception Creek confluence. Fishing occurs at two major activity nodes: near the Parks Highway and railroad bridges; and at the mouth where the stream enters the Susitna River. The road-accessi- ble node receives very heavy use beginning . in mid-June as the king salmon enter Willow Creek, and tapering off as the pink salmon run ends in late August. During the busy season, this area will often host several hundred shore anglers. These anglers are often fishing from privateiy owned land, an issue which is receiving increasing attention (see page 28). The activity node at the Willow ,creek mouth is accessible by riverboat only. Most effort is expended during four consecutive weekend openings during the king salmon run. At the peak of the run, shore anglers will line up elbow-to-elbow along a particularly good 300 foot stretch of the Susitna River imme- diately downstream of the southernmost Willow Creek mouth. At such times, the number of anglers will exceed 100. There are no sanitary facilities in this area, which has raised concerns about the effects of random and untreated human waste and litter. Fishermen will also anchor their riverboats offshore during these weekend openings and cast into fishing holes. King Salmon: The king salmon has histori- cally been the most sought-after sport fish 26 species at Willow Creek and throughout the Susitna River basin. In 1964, due to dan- gerous declines in fish stocks , king salmon fishing throughout the Susitna basin was prohibited. As the stocks rebounded, fishing was again opened, but on a · much reduced basis. Allowable king salmon catch in Willow Creek has been set at 300 fish (over 20 inches in length), although biolo- gists suspect that this number could be raised without endangering the run. Pink Salmon. Pink salmon enter Willow Creek in very large numbers in even-num- bered years, and in moderate numbers in odd-numbered years. This species provides excellent opportunities for family-oriented outings, with much higher rates of fishing success than for other salmon species. Chum Salmon. Chum salmon is attracting increasing attention as a sport fish species, due to its relatively large size and its fight- ing abilities. Harvest at Willow Creek in- creased from 343 in 1977 to 1, 533 in 1981. Silver Salmon. Despite a small run, an important . silver salmon sport fishery does occur at the mouth of Willow Creek. Silvers destined for spawning grounds at other stream$ temporarily hold in the clear waters of the Willow Creek/Susitna River conflu,.. ence, where they become available for har- vest. Figures from 1980 show 1, 207 silver salmon harvested in this manner, with a drop in 1981 to 747 fish. Rainbow Trout. Rainbow trout attract a significant number of anglers to Willow . J n 1 n n : j n ~ J n n l u u I u c l I I I ! w r : u u u u r 1 I r LJ r : u l r' I : Creek. Most effort for rainbows occurs early in the season before salmon species arrive, and again after the salmon have spawned. Use is dispersed over a wider area than for the salmon species, extending from the mouth past the Parks Highway bridge and up into the Talkeetna Mountain foothills. Willow Creek Riverboating A major recreational use of Willow Creek is as a river boating corridor. Most boaters launch at commercial facilities near the Parks Highway bridge. The · great majority of riverboat traffic is downstream, and then. towards outlying areas within the Susitna basin. Thus, Willow Creek serves as an important transportation corridor by accessing the roadless areas to the west, where dispersed settlements have developed as a result of government land sales, · homesteading, mining, and other attractions. As these areas have become more settled, the volume of riverboat traffic on Willow Creek has risen correspondingly. Important destination points include Kroto Creek (Deshka River), the Yentna River, and Alexander Creek. Recreational Issues Angler-Boater Conflicts. The most difficult problem concerning use of Willow Creek is the growing conflict between riverboaters · and shore anglers. River boaters have traditionally traveled between the Parks Highway and the mouth to gain access to 27 fishing spots and to outlying ar~as. But as population increases have brought more sport fishermen to Willow Creek, clkshes have become more common between tHe two user groups. Anglers complain that i high speed boats create wakes which disturb fishing holes, create safety hazards, ! and harm spawning grounds. Boaters respond that Willow Creek is the only reasonaqle access to outlying areas and that high speed operation is required in order to maintain) ·maneuver- ability. After a State Recreation Area is established at Willow Creek, the: Division of Parks will have responsibility fOr managing the stream's water column and f~r resolving this conflict. · · Fishing Regulations. Because demand for king salmon far exceeds the natural run in Willow Creek, the Department df Fish and Game has regulated sport fishing, in order to ensure that escapement goals! are met. There are concerns that state park estab- lishment would bring more angle:r:s and place additional pressures on fish stod:ks, forcing the Department of Fish and Game to shorten the king salmon season. Winter Recreation Management. Because the Willow area receives abundant snowfall and moderate temperatures, its potential for winter recreation is high. Deve~opment of a trail network along Willow CreeK. will invite skiers, snowmachiners, and do;g mushers . These user groups have expe~ienced con- flicts at other locations, and the Division of Parks should manage the area td avoid such problems. Trespass Recreation. "Trespass recreation," the inadvertent or deliberate use of private property hi recreationists , is an issue. Trespass sitpations are increasing, particu- larly upstrea;m of the Parks Highway bridge. Private own~rs have posted signs and taken other actimis to protect their property int~r~sts. Commercial A!ctivities. At present, commer- cial riverbo~t operators have established businesses at the Parks Highway birdge. Clients incluide those destined only for the mouth and qthers bound for outlying areas. ~ With establi~hment of the park unit, state regulations will govern all c;:ommercial enter- prises within the park boundaries. Trail Management. Concern has been ex- pressed about difficult foot access to Willow . I 28 Creek below the Parks Highway bridge. At present, primitive trails extend a short distance downstream before disappearing. This has the effect of concentrating anglers around the highway bridge in spite of ex- cellent fishing areas further downstream. Other issues include the following: - 0 power transmission lines 0 hunting and trapping regulation 0 sanitation 0 fish habitat protection 0 preservation of archaeological resources 0 handicapped access to fishing areas o historic trails 0 state competition with private recreation providers 0 road development within the park o floodplain or wetlands construction 0 regional road network ! I : j n l n ..., , I : j n i J 'I i J n l n .l ; J l n u u u u u ' ' ......i '1 I ...J 4 VISITOR PREFERENCES, RECREATIONAL DEMAND Local Preferences The Division of Parks distributed a ques- tionnaire in the summer of 1981. It was designed to yield a clear picture of the Willow Creek area I identify recreational issues I and suggest how the stream corridor might be developed to satisfy local and regional recreational demands. Questions were chosen to point out present recreational activities I problem areas I issues I attractive features of the area 1 and preferences for types of facilities and activities. Following are some of the important and most revealing conclusions of the survey. A complete tabulation can be found in Appendix D . 0 0 Seventy-three percent of the respon- dents lived in the Anchorage area I while 37% were Matanuska-Susitna resi- dents. Respondents visited Willow Creek an average of almost six times per year. This indicates that many people rely on Willow Creek for a major portion of their yearly outdoor recreation. 29 0 0 Sport fishing is the major recreational attraction. Ninety-seven percent of Anchorage respondents and 86% of the local respondents fish at Willow Creek. Camping is the second most frequent activity I followed by picnicking. Fishing 1 camping I hiking I sightseeing I cross-country skiing I and rafting were judged to be the most appropriate activities at Willow Creek. Hunting I riverboating 1 and snowmachining I although favored by a majority of respondents I received smaller favorable percentages. 0 Local residents typically stay at Willow Creek less than one day. The mean value for Anchorage area residents was one to two days 1 suggesting that Willow Creek is a popular weekend ' destination point. 0 Only facilities which encourage favored activities were supported. These include trails I campgrounds I parking areas 1 picnic shelters 1 boat launch I and access roads. 0 0 0 Facilities thought to be inappropriate include! overnight cabins, lodges/ hotels/motels, convenience stores, and playfie~ds. Sport fishing is the primary .attraction at WiUow Creek. Other attractions include its accessibility, pleasant atmos- phere, and riverboat access to down- stream : areas such as the Deshka River. Overcrowding was most often mentioned as a , negative feature of the area. Anchorjage residents next indicated poor maintenance, while · local residents ·complained of boat traffic on Willow Creek.i Another problem cited is a lack of dev¢loped camping areas. 0 When :asked what type of overnight accomrriodatia.ns they used, 58% of Anch- orage /respondents listed some type of vehicle and 56% used tents. (Note that becaus'e some people use both types of accomniodations, the percentages total · more than 100.) Seventy-one percent of Ma1ianuska-Susitna respondents used a vehiCle, while 50% used a tent. 0 Most people favored locating camping areas : within reasonable walking dis- tance, : as opposed to streambank de- velop~ent or areas located several miles away. o Angle~s were satisfied with their fishing success rates for most fish species. King isalmon fishing brought. a mixed response, with 50% of the fishermen being !dissatisfied. 30 Regional Preferences The Alaska Outdoor Recreation Plan, pub- lished by the Division of Parks in 1981, contains detailed information about the pre- ferences of Southcentral Alaska residents. Figures 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 are excerpted from the plan and lead to the following conclusions relating to the management and development of a Willow Creek State Rec- reation Area. 0 Fishing and tent camping are the two activities·· which respondents desired to do more often (Figure 12). The Willow Creek area can provide opportunities for both these activities,· consistent with the . land and water's ability to absorb adverse impacts. Figure 18. AC~IYI~IES.~HA~ SOU'f'HCEN~RAL PAR~ICIPAN~S WOULD LIKE ~0 DO MORE OI'~EN Percent of Respondents Fishing ... , ................................ 25% Tent camping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12% Hunting .................................... 7o/o Motorboating ................................ 8% Hiking/walking• ............................. 4% Alpine skiing .................................. 4% Swimming ................................... 3% Flying ...................................... 3% Horseback riding• ............................ 3% · Sailing ....................................... 2% Canoeing/kayaking ........................... 2% Bicycling• ................................... 2% Beach combing ............................... 2% Traveling/sightseeing .......................... 1% Cross-country skiing• . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1% Other ...................................... 21 o/o None ......... ~ ............................. Oo/o • Trail r.elated activities subtotal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10% Source: Alaska Division of Parks l j n n n n l n n .l i J 1 l l '. J n ii • I l j r 1 '-I u lJ 11 u I I __. •. 1 i ! .....I ~ ~' i .J r l 0 0 0 The four most. popular outdoor recrea- tional activities in the region are fish- ing, tent camping, hiking/walking/ running, and hunting (Figure 13). The Willow ·Creek corridor is capable of supporting all of these activities, with care taken that increased usage does not spoil the area's natural character. Acquisition and development of more backpacking campsites are favored by a majority of southcentral residents (Fig- ure 14). In its extensive lowlands with complex drainage patterns, the Willow Creek corridor is especially suited to these low-impact facilities. More and better developed roadside campgrounds and picnic areas are favored (Figure 14). The well drained uplands overlooking Willow Creek are capable of meeting some of this demand, due to their suitability for a range of intensive activities and facilities. 0 Southcentral residents want more hiking trails (Figure 14). The Willow Creek corridor is suited for a network of streamside and back-country trails. Such a trail network would serve sev- eral user groups, including anglers, hikers , skiers , snowmachiners, and dog mushers. o More and better developed ·canoeing, kayaking, and rafting trails are favored in the southcentral region (Figure 14). Comments received during public meet- ings indicate that the curving and 31 Figure lS. I' AVO RITE SOUTHCENTRAL OUTDOOR RECREATION ACTIVITIESt t 1. Fishing .......................... : ...... 24% 2. Tent camping ............. , ............... 9% 3. Hiking/walking/running• .................. 5% 4. Hunting ................................. 6% 5. Motor boating ............................. 5%. 6. Beachcombing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5% 7. Baseball/softball .......................... 4% 8. Bicycling• ................................ 3% 9. Cross-country skiing• ..................... , 4% 10. Alpine skiing ............................. 4% 11. Winter off-road vehicle* ..................... 3% 12. Swimming ................................. 2% 13. Flying for pleasure ......................... 2% 14. Summer off-road vehicle* .................... 2% 15. Traveling/sightseeing ...................... 2% 16. Horseback riding• ......................... 2% 17. Other•• • Trail related activities • • Twenty.flve other activities were listed and represent one percent or less each t t Represente first preference given Source: Alaska Division of Parks l'lgurel4.PREI'ERENCE81'0B80U'rHCEN'rBAL S'rA'rE PABK ACQUISI'riOll, DE:VELOPMEll'r AND MAIN'riiNANCE More Develop Jusl Less ·Areas Areas Maintain Areas Hiking trans 53% 31% 15% lo/o Roadside campgrounds/ picnic areas 61% 17% 20% 2% Backpacking campsites 48% 29% 21 o/o 2% Canoeing, kayaking, and rafting trails 41 o/o 33% 22% 4% Developed recreation areas 51% 23% 24% 2% Well-accessed natural areas .. 38% 33% 25% .4% Historic sites 37% 32% 25% 6% Wilderness areas 23% 25% 35% 17% Source: Al.a.ska Division of Parks 0 0 debris-strewn waters of Willow Creek are dangerous for canoe operation. Rafting and kayaking, however, are judged to be suitable activities in these waters. Desired features in out-of-town recrea- . tional areas include fishing areas, access to water, facilities such . as campsites and picnic tables, and undis- turbed natural areas (Figure 15). Willow Creek is capable of meeting some of this demand, in an area within two hours driving time of Anchorage. For many Susitna valley residents, a park at WHlow Creek will serve as a community recreational area. Desired features in community recreational areas -which are also consistent with the missi:on of the State Park System - include trails, paved roads, water access, and picnic tables, campsites, drinking water, and restrooms (Figure 16). Recreational Demand In keeping with Alaska's explosive population growth, demand for outdoor recreation rose dramatically during the decade of the seven- ties. The number of sport fishing licenses issued increased from 113 ,394 in 1970 to 206,804 in 1980, according to the Department of Fish and Game. Division of Parks figures indicate that visitation at the Matanuska- Susitna district parks rose from 92,078 in FY7:3 to 391,923 in FY81, representing a 426% increase in 8 years. 32 J'lgure J._tDIISIRBD I'IIArUBIJS Ill SOU~HOIIRZBAL OU~·OI'-~OW!f BIJOBBA~IOJI ABIIAS Features Percentage of South central Population In Favor of Features l. Fishing areas .......................... , . 95% 2. Access to water for swimming or boating ....... 91% 3. Areas for hunting ......................... 87% 4~ Picnic tables, campsites drinking water, restrooms ................ 91% 5. Undisturbed natural areas .................. 88% 6. Bicycle, walking, Skiing or horseback riding trails ................... 84% 7. Motorcycle, snowmachine and other ORV Trails ........................ 76% 8. Paved roads .............................. 69% 9. Unpaved roads ........................... 66% 10. Overnight lodging ......................... 66% 11. Electrical hook-ups, showers general store ........................... 66% 12. Playfields ............................... 60% 13. Lawns Be benches ......................... 49% Source: Alaska Division of Parks J'lgure Jl.. DIISIRIID I'IIA~URIIS IN SOU~HOIJN~RAL COMMURI~Y RIICRJJA~IOR ARJI.IAI Features Percentage of Southcentral Population In Favor of Features l. Playfields . . . . . . . . . . .'. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95% 2. Lawns Be benches ......................... 92% 3. Bicycle, walking, skiing or horseback riding trails ................... 85% 4. Paved roads ......... : .................... 85% 5. Access to water for swimming and boating ................... 77% 6. Picnic tables, campsites, drinking water, restrooms ................ 75% 7. Undisturbed natural area ................... 54% 8. Overnight lodging ......................... 51% 9. Electrical hookups, showers, general store ........................... 51 o/o 10. Fishingareas ............................ 56% .11. Motorcycle, snowmach1ne and other ORV trails ......................... 44% . 12. Unpaved roads ........................... 21 o/o 13. Areas of hunting ........................... 9% Source. Alaska Division of Parks i I I • n n n \. ~ n n n 1 l ~ n n n n n I _j . 1 I .J 1 l .... ! I _j i .J . i I . ' j ' I .J I _j I - Figure 1 'l' •. POPULA!riON PO BE CASTS Matanuska-Susitna Borough- 107,000 97,000 ) / 87,000 77,000 / l2i 0 ~ 67,000 57,000 p.. ~ 47,000 37,000 27,000 17,000 / , / l/ L """ / / 1980 1984 1988 1992 1996 300,000 Anchorage Census Division ~ 280,000 260,000 l2i / § 240,000 j ~ 220,000 2 200,000 180,000 _,/ / L v L 160,000 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 Sou roe: Institute of Social and Economic Research 33 Population growth is forecasted to continue into the next century (see Figure 17 1 page 33) I although at slower rates than in the past 10 years. Likewise I . demand for rec- reational opportunities will continue to grow (particularly for such favorite activities as fishing I camping, hiking), but at reduced rates. Consistent with a national trend toward closer-to-home recreational outings I this moderation in demand will be offset somewhat by the Matanuska-Susitna district's proximity to population centers. For the purposes of this plan, it is assumed by the Division of Parks that recreational demand exceeds the capability of the Willow Creek corridor to provide quality experi- ences . Therefore, this plan will recommend only those facilities and activities which can be accommodated while maintaining the area's high natural and aesthetic qualities. l L u u u [ 1 L.J rl 11 w r l I I : u r 1 5 ANALYSIS AND, EVALUA~ION A primary objective of ·this plan is. to analyze the Willow Creek corridor's suitability for providing outdoor recreational opportunities and to determine the appropriate role of the Division of Parks in satisfying recreational demands i'n the area. · · Analysis of factors such as natural re- sources, existing recreational patterns, emerging recreational trends, issues, and public opinion as expressed in workshops and questionnaires can . lead to conclusions concerning the area's capability and how the Division of Parks can play a role. In this chapter, information from preceding chapters is synthesized in order to present the speci- fic recommendations in following chapters . Discussion is divided into the following sub-headings: 1. Rec;reational opportunities and con- straints. 2. Role of the Division of Parks. 3. Determination of park unit boundaries. 4. Development opportunities and con- straints. 5. Acce~s, internal circulation. 35 6. Archaeological, historical preservation. 7. Interpretation, outdoor education. 1. Recreational Opportunities and Con- straints Its diverse landscapes and relatively spa- cious area suggest that the Willow Creek corridor can support a range of recreational activities. The most obvious suitable activ- ities are those which presently occur: sport fishing, picnicking, .and camping in summer time; and skiing, dog mushing, and snow- machining in winter. River-floating. With the proper support facilities, the Willow Creek corridor is cap- able of supporting activities which do not presently occur. River-floating, with non- motorized water craft such as rafts and kayaks, is an activity with very high de- mand in southcentral Alaska. Willow Creek's clear water, small scale, and moderate gra- dient make it well suited for floaters , of intermediate skill. A hazard which detracts from the potential for floating activities: is the amount of wood and other debris litter- ing the streambank, sometimes forming dangerous log jams and obstructions. In spite of this hazard, floating should be encouraged at Willow Creek. Launching and take-out stations should be incorporated into the area's trail system. Portages around dangerous obstructions should be con- structed. Signs which warn of upcoming dangerous conditions should be located on the streambank, to be visible to floaters on the water's surface. Upstream portions of Willow Creek have traditionally been used by river-floaters, who enter and exit the stream prior to its passing into the study area. Typically, these recreationists are whitewater enthu- siasts interested' in only a short segment of the stream. However, there is growing interest in extended floating trips which begin on Willow Creek several miles upstream of the proposed park and end in the lower creek or at some downstream point on the Susitna River. The Division of Parks, . Matanuska-Susitna Borough, and others should jointly investigate the potential for establishing put-in/take-out points at various locations along Willow Creek and the Susitna River. Trail-based Activities. The ·Willow Creek questionnaire distributed by the Division of Parks (see Appendix D)· indicates that trail- based activities are in high demand. This finding is consistent with other public opin- ion surveys (see, for example, pages 30-32). The Willow Creek study area presently supports only a small amount of trail-based 36 recreational activity. Primitive waterfront trails on the north and south banks lead downstream from the Parks Highway bridge a short. distance before dissappearing. These trails are used solely to gain access to fishing spots. The Lucky Shot Trail, lo- cated south of the stream, is the only trail within the study area . whtch is enjoyed by recreationists other . than anglers. Dog mushing is perhaps the most common activity on the Lucky Shot. The area is capable of supporting far more trail-based recreation, with little or no adver$e impacts. Much of its ground sur- face is well-drained, forested upland, which is suitable for most year-round trail activi- ties. The sensitive wetlands are excellent for winter activities, once frozen and pro- tected by a snow layer. Taken as a whole, the proposed park's 3,450 acres can provide a diversity of trip distances and experi- ences, ranging from short improved hiking . loops suitable for family outings, to unim- proved route-finding experiences reminiscent of true wilderness. The area's trail system should be expanded to provide access to activity areas, as well as to support the demand for skiing, hiking, snowmachining, and dog sledding. 2. Role of the Division of Parks The Alaska State Park System: · Statewide Framework, published . by the Division of Parks ih 1982, contains specific· criteria which determine if establishment (iS a unit of the state park system is appropriate. The , I ~ J n n n n n n n l l ' J l n n f 1 u r 1 u 11 u r 1 u c ' I ; I I ......... ' ....J I ..J . 1 I criteria, With discussion as concerns Willow Creek, include the following: . ,. -~ : Criterion. The area possesses, or provides access to recreational, cultural, or natural resources of statewide or regional signifi- cance. While state park units may provide for. significan..t use by local residents, units shall not be established solely on the basis of meeting community recreational needs or desires. Comments. Most of the present visitation at Willow Creek is by residents of the Anchor- age area, suggesting that it is of regional significance. This regional significance will continue into the future, due to the stream's abundant fishery resources, which can support. significantly increased pressure without undue adverse impacts. Criterion. The area meets existing or .future recreational, educational, or scientific needs and/ or helps to resolve outdoor recreational conflicts and issues. Comments: Establishment of a state park unit at Willow Creek will allow the construc- tion of needed support facilities such as campgrounds and access trails . These facilities will enable the area to meet existing recreational needs ·in an improved ·manner. In addition, establishment of a park unit will enable the Division of Parks to actively manage the area to· resolve growing recrea- tional conflicts (see page 27). 37 I Criterion. Management of the. ar1ea as a unit of the state park system is feasi~le. · Comments. When developed according to the recommendations of this plan, m~nagement .of the area by the Division of Park1s is feasible and complementary to .other recr1eation areas and state park units within the i region, . In many cases, the nearby state unifs at Decep- tion Creek and Nancy Lake can ;be managed with common staff ·and equipment pools. • ! • I Criterion. The area meets the wurpose and characteristics of one of the eight types of state park units. ! · Comments. A state recreation area should be relatively spacious and posse',ss a diver- sity of outdoor recreational o:8portunities. The primary management objectiv¢ of a state recreation area is to provide a maximum level · of recreational opportunities, b~sed on the land's natural values and its ability to sus- tain use without significant advetse impacts. The Willow Creek corridor meets jail ()f these conditions. It is suited, based 1 upon such factors as existing recreational use, potential use, . landscape character, and i, size, .for establishment as a state recreation area . . I I Criterion. Establishment of the Jn.it will not duplicate opportunities· which are! more ade- quately provided by other public !agencies or by the private sector. · · Comments. At tile ·present time, '!two private enterprises provide recreational services on Willow Creek~ They are located on the north and south tianks immediately downstream of the Parks I,Highway bridge. The Willow Island Drivei Inn provides parking, camping, boat launchirtg, and vehicle storage services. Shore fishinlg and boat launching are the I primary act~ vi ties. As a sideline to its business as ~ restaurant, tavern, and motel, the Pioneer Ij.odge serves as a boat launch~ng and vehicle 1 par king area. Due to their · location adj*cent · to the Parks Highway, these privat~ providers are suited for ser- vicing the heeds of vehicle-based recrea- tionists. THey complement many of the less intensive · services which the Division of Parks custorharily provides. They are not able to sati'sfy demands for the dispersed fishing and trail activities which are better located on I the public lands downstream. Criterion. legislative the area. ! ~ublic, local government, and/or sU~pport exists for establishment of ! I I Comments. iPlanning for a state recreation area at Willow Creek has been a cooperative project of ~he Division of Parks and the Matanuska-Susitna Borough. As a show of support for:, a state park unit at Willow Creek, the :porough administration has indi- cated its willingness to pursue a cooperative land managefuent agreement, with the Divi- sion of ParRs ,· which will transfer manage- ment a.utho:Fity for ·borough-owned land within the corridor to the state. Comments h~ard at several public meetings held to gather input for this management I 38 plan suggest widespread public support for a state park unit at Willow Creek. In addi- tion, the Planning Commission and Assembly of the Matanuska-Susitna Borough have adopted resolutions supporting the plan and establishment of a state park unit at this location. 3. Determination of Park Unit Boundaries The area recommended for establishment as Willow Creek State Recreation Area must be able to satisfy a number of management and development needs and provide a range of opportunities, all within a natural and pleas- ing setting. The proposed boundaries have been drawn to support intensive facilities such as vehicle campgrounds, dispersed trail-based activities, natural areas for self discovery, and the visual and sound buffers necessary to shield recreationists from sur- rounding land uses. A graphic summary of the analysis· performed to establish recom- mended boundaries is shown in Figure 18, page 39. 4. Development Opportunities and Con- straints Lowlands. The lowlands adjacent to Willow. Creek are limited in their ability to support . facilities by a high-water table, poor soils, and flood hazards. Only facilities which relate directly to water-based recreation should be located in the lowlands. These facilities will include stream access trails, boat-in or walk-in camping areas, boat launches , etc. ~ J 1 l l n n n i l j n ~ j n n n : I u Figure 18. BOUNDABY ANALYSIS * Legend ·-------· land ownership boundary proposed park boundary ~mmm~t~I~ttt1 developable upland soils ~ --------one mile proximity (radius) from W!llow Creek n._r--! •used to determine recommended park unit boundary O. .5 1 m ile Source: Alaska Dtvtston of Parks 39 Trails can be developed in the lowlands adjacent to the. stream, although at higher 1 cost than the same standard trail in the uplands. Additional construction costs will be incurred due to the boardwalks, bridges , and atlditional bed material ne·eded to safely traverse the: numerous drainageways and 'wetlands. Nonetheless, trails are a cost- ·. effective alternative to roads as a means of access to the1 water, because of the extreme- , ly high costs of road construction in such 1 situations. I 'Minter trails can. be constructed in the 1 wetlands. Once the ground is frozen and protected by a snow layer, trail corridors can be brushed and mar ked. Such trails can greatly expand the area's winter rec- reational potential, with only a minimal ,amount of effort or expense. These trails :will be available annually for winter recrea- 1tionists ~ but should be gated or otherwise 'barricaded as the summer thaw arrives. 1 Uplands. The uplands located approximately !one-half mile south of Willow Creek are level, '!well drained, and forested. They are cap- able of supporting a wide range of activities and facilities. Camping and various trail activities which do not depend upon access to Willow Creek to be practiced can be located . on ~·,the uplands. Their setback distance will· also ensure that conflicts be- tween land·-based and water-based attivities will be less likely. ,,, The uplands ·are also the best locations for , facilitie.s . w}lich support anglers and others bound for the Willow Creek waterfront. 40 These facilities include parking areas, sani- tary fixtures, water wells , and trailheads . Because of the distance between uplands and Willow Creek (average one-half mile), the trail system connecting upland support facilities and the Willow Creek activity areas must be extensive and of high quality. Much of the spacious upland forest is mixed birch/spruce of medium age and density, with little undergrowth. It has the potential for high quality vehicle campgrounds, with units widely spaced (200 feet or more on center) to create a feeling of maximum pri- vacy. To further enhance the quality and utility of the vehicle campgrounds, small picnic shelters should be located in proximity to the camping units, to be used in times of poor weather or as gathering points for multi-vehicle groups. Each shelter should be equally accessible from approximately six camping units,·· set back a distance of 100 to 200 feet. Parking and Trailhead Facilities. To support the substantial number of day users which Willow Creek will attract, parking and trail- head facilities should be provided. These facilities should be segregated from over- night facilities· and designed for efficient vehicle handling and storage, with direct foot access to Willow Creek. A substantial demand for walk-in camping opportunities is indicated by questionnaire responses and comments at public meetings~ A series of such camping units should be . constructed cat ~Willow ·· C:Feek, With most located on the uplands a short distance from l J n l J n ~~ j n n 'I : I i I l J n ~ J n l J n ~. J n n n :-7. J r ,- 1 i r 1 I • ' ' ...J r ~ I •. ....... I I I u I I -- I I ' -- • 1 _j • 1 I J . I I _j . \ parking areas. With adequate design safe- guards, the bluff edges are suitable for such facilities. Pit or single vault latrines should be provided within reasonable dis- tance of walk-in units. 5. Access, Internal Circulation Due to the high costs of road construction, the vehicle network within Willow Creek State Recreation Area should be designed for maximum utility with minimum road distances. A recommendation for a boat launch at the Willow Creek mouth requires that a four mile road be constructed from the Parks Highway to the launch site. This road should act as the main recreation area arterial, with spurs departing towards campgrounds, par king lots, and other activity areas. This road should be constructed on the level uplands south of Willow Creek to the maximum extent possible, thus avoiding the wetlands and other hazards discussed in preceding sub- . headings which would add substantial miti- gation costs. Departing from parking areas located on the uplands, foot trails should provide the main means of access to Willow Creek. An exten- sive trail network should be developed connecting parking areas with various water- front points and then paralleling large seg- ments of streamfront. Such a network will disperse recreationists, avoid the high cost of road construction, and retain the quiet natural setting valued by visitors. Trails are thus a key element of the facilities plan at Willow Creek. 41 333 R/\SPC:,[;:.~F:'Y ~:C),C\D ANCHORAGE, ALA.SK/\ 9?513 -1599 6. Archaeological, Historical Preservation A preliminary assessment by the State Office of History and Archaeology indicates a strong possibility of prehistoric remains being located within the proposed recreation area. In keeping with a basic goal of the state park system, to preserve and interpret Alaska's cultural heritage, every reasonable effort should be made to inventory the area's archaeological resources. Such an effort should be designed to locate, catalog, and assess the significance of prehistoric re- sources. If the resources are found but not judged to be of particular significance, they should remain in place. Plans for facility development should, where feasible, avoid the known locations of archaeological sites. If there is no reasonable alternative to con- struction in an area containing such sites, consideration should be given to their sci en- tific excavation and removal. Such a deter- mination will be made in consultation with the State Office of History and Archaeology. The Willow Creek area has a rich historical heritage, dating back to the early 1900s, when gold mining in the nearby Willow Creek Mining District began in earnest. In an effort to commemorate the area's mmmg history, names from that era should be applied to the recreational facilities proposed in this plan . 7. Interpretation, Outdoor Education As the facilities recommendations of this plan are implemented_, the types of visitors at Willow Creek will become more diverse. Groups, families, hikers, skiers, and other recreationists will have a range of interests far I more div:erse than those of the area's present visitors. Interpretation' Program. Visitor · information and interpretation programs are a fundamen- tal aspect of state park system management. 42 The Willow Creek corridor contains a diver- sity of natural features and systems. Its land forms, water ways , forests , fish, and wildlife hold. fascinating stories which can be enjoyed by park visitors through an active interpretation program. Such an· interpre- tive program should be developed in phases, as demand is exhibited. : I '• J n I J n 1 ; I '' n l J :1 I I ' J 1 i. J n ..., I J l ..., I I l J n I I ,-1 J ! l LJ r l lJ : ! u ' ~ J . 1 ! _J . ' J ~ 1 ' ' ~ 1 I ·.& .. .. GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS . . ·.zon.ing To :f~rther clarify the intent for management of land . and resources within state park units, all lands within each park unit are classified into one . or more of the following zones: 0 natural zone 0 cultural zone 0 recreational development zone o wilderness zone . Figure 19a, page 44, is excerpted from the Alaska State Park System: Statewide Frame- work, published in 1982. The intent and management considerations for each zone are described. The proposed Willow Greek State Recreation Area is zoned in Figure 19b, page 45. Only. the recreational development and natural zones are applied within this park unit. Regulation of Commercial Activities With legislative establishment of the ·Willow 43 ' Creek State Recreation Area, th~ Division of Parks will become responsible fqr regulating commercial activities within the park. At the present time, commercial activities are limited to riverboat operators whose cha:her services are based at the Park Highwayj bridge .. A large portion of the boat traffic on Willow Creek is by commercial operators!. As the facilities recommendations I of this plan are implemented, a boat launch rill be built at the Willow Creek mouth. At 1 that time, it. is recommended that the Division· of Parks institute a permit system whic~ will allow commercial riverboat operations ! to be con- ducted at the boat launch area. · Permits will be issue.d with appropriate [stipulations. i . This recommendation is. intendecl. to reduce conflicts between boaters and anglers by re- locating the commercial operations to a better location. It is consistent with proposed regulations governing the operation of state park units. Figure 19a. PARK UNI!r ZONES BECBEATIONAL DEVELOPMENT ZONE l'urpoae and Cbaracterlatlca Recreational development zones are established within State· Park System units to meet the more intensive recreational needs of the public with convenient and well-defined access via roads, railroads, boating anchorages, airstrips, and high standard trails: with more Intensively-developed recreational facilities such as campgrounds or picnic areas; with guided activi- ties; and with information centers to orient visitors to the unit's special features. The landscape within this zone can be modified to support educational . and recreational activities and/or to enhance wildlife habitat and scenic qualities. These .zones are established where soils, slope, drainage and vegetation can support more intensive recreational activities. rire suppression and insect and disease control may be used, where appropriate, within this zone to maintain or enhance recreational use. A recreational development zone may already have . been Influenced by prior developments and is Intended to provide a transition area to absorb heavy human Impacts. Development• and Acllvlllea The highest level of developments and activities is meant to occur In thiS zone within park units. The developments allowed in this. zone Include .. but are not limited to -roads and trails, private vehicle and public transportation routes or access, campgrounds. picnic areas, visitor and Interpretive centers, high- standard trails for all ages and abilities, park man- agement facilities and commercial lodges or resorts as provlc;:led for within the unit management or site development plan. High Intensity activities related to the use :of these developed facilities are generally encouraged. Summer and winter off·road vehicles (ORV's) and other motorized recreational vehicles may be allowed In this zone within specifically designated areas or through management techniques such as time arid/or space allocations. N.UUBALZONE l'urpoae and Cbaracterlallca Natural zones are established to provide for moderate· to low·lmpact and dispersed forms of recreatJon and to act as buffers between recreational development and wilderness zones. These zones are relatively undeveloped and undls .. turbed, and are managed to malntBin high scenic qualities and to provide visitors·· with opportunities for significant natural outdoor experiences. An area's natural landscape character Is the dominant feature within this zone. Landscape modification may be allowed to enhance, maintain, or protect the natural setting according to the unit management plan. Use of [ire suppression, insect or disease control. or wildlife habitat enhancement as management techniques In natural zones will be defined in the unit manage- ment plan. Development• and Acllvlllea Developments in a natural zone are intended to pro- vide for the safety of park visitors and to provide for a moderate level of convenience .In a high·quality natural setting. Allowablfl: developments include -but are not limited to .. backcountry ·shelters. public-use cabins, high standard hiking and bicycle trails (paved or gravel), bridges and roads where neces- sary to access development zones and as provided for in an approved management plan. A medium level of activity is encouraged In this zone. Activities in- clude -but are not limited to -hang-gliding. bi· cycling, backpacking. fishing. hunting, cross·country skiing, camping, sledding, tobogganning, berry picking and rock climbing. Snowmobiles may be allowed In this zone -within specifically designated areas .. depending on resource sensitivities and po- tential conrlicts with other park uses. Other private, motorized oil-road vehicle use is generally prohibited within this zone. WILDEBNESS ZONE l'urpoae and Cbaracterlatlca Wilderness zones are established to promote. to per- petuate and, where necessary, to restore the wilder- ness character of the land and its specific values of solitude, physical and mental challenge, scientific study, inspiration and primitive recreational oppor- tunities. Wilderness zones are of such size as to maintain the area's wilderness character. are tailored to protect the associated values and, if possible, are defined by watershed boundaries. These zones are characterized by the natural landscape, its vegetation and its geologic· forr:ns. Resource modification can occur in this zone only to restore areas to a natural state. Natural processes will be allowed to operate freely to the extent that human safety and public and private property are protected. The use of fire suppression and insect and disease control as management tech· nlques may occur only through the Implementation of a plan approved by the director ol the Division of Parks. Wildlife habitat enhancement activities, such as vegetation manipulation, may not occur in this zone. Developmenta and Acllvlllea ,, A wilderness zone should have no man-made conven- iences within its boundaries except for the most primitive of trails with minimum trail maintenance, bridges, and signing. Developments or other lm- 44 provements will be undertaken only If it has been determined by the director of the Division or Parks that significant threats to public safety exist or In order to reduce adverse impacts on the area's re- sources and values. Access to and within this zone. for other than rescue or management purposes. will be by foot or other non -motOrized· means except (or 1) use of designated aircraft-landing access sites wher~· alternative means, of ac~ess ·do .not exist, 2) authorized" re·search projects, or 3) situations spe- cifically ·allowed.· by law. Aircraft landing tor rec- reational access or research purposes may be. restricted. by the director as to daily time or season of use. The dfoppir:ag of people or objects from, aircraft Is prohibited except by special permit issued by the director. Activities which threaten the char- acter of the wilderness zone will be restricted. U overuse or misuse occurs, the director may restrict entry and use of the area. Methods of restriction may include separation and control of use activities through time and space allocation. use/area rotation schemes, and/or a permit system. CULTURAL ZONE l'urpoae and Cbaracterlatlca Cul.tural zones are established to preserve. in- vestigate. document and Interpret Alaska's cultural resources and heritage. Cultural zones are designated to provide adequate protection of historical, cultural, archaeological, or anthropological resources. These zones may contain a single feature or an assemblage of historic features. Development• and Acllvltlea The Intensity ol development In a cultural zone Js managed to insure that use levels in the area do ·not Impair the Integrity of historical, cultural, archae- ological, or anthropological resources. Any devel- opment wlihln a cultural zone should ·have minimal Impact on the cultural and historical values within the unit and should Involve minimal introduction of artificial features for activities not related to the cultural resource and its values. Development gen· erally will be associated with the necessities of public access, safety and Interpretation of the cultural re- sources present. Paved trails, automobile parking. toilets and interpretive displays are examples of such development. Activities In this. ·zone are for edu- cational or scientific purposes. Recreation·related facUlties are generally , secondary and will be separated from the site(s) of cultural resources by sufficient buffers. Activities In keeping with ·the historical period of the cultural resource may be encouraged. To protect the cultural values for which the unit was created. resource modification, fire suppression, . and insect and disease ~ontrol man· agement techniques will be utilized only when ab- solutely necessary In this zone. Source: Alaska Division or Parka n LJ n :--] l J n i 1 L.J n n l_ .,i n n l . .I n n lJ n n L. J Figure 19b. WILLOW CREEK SRA LAND-USE ZONES h ,. ,, Legend na.tura.l zone ~ • • ••• •• •• • • • •••• •• recrea.tiona.l development zone n____r--l o. .5 1 mile 45 Figure 20. GENEBAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN -- - --Exlstlng Trall ~ C> Propœed Tent Camp Sites - - ---Exlstlng. Traii,Proposed Upgrade @ Walk-ln Campground · .. · · · ·• · · · .. Proposed Foot Trall ~ Boat-ln Campground n___r--1 o. .5 1 mlle otvt.kNt of Parb 46 u u u u u u u u D D u r ·~ I . Riverboating Regulation With establishment of a state park unit at Willow Creek, Division of Parks will accept responsibility and authority to resolve con- flicts and protect the area's. natural envi- ronment.. One management tool is the auth- ority to regulate the various recreational activities. A major recreational issue at Willow Creek is the growing conflict between riverboaters and other users and increasing concerns about the environmental impacts of river- boating. In an effort to resolve this issue, a new boat launch at the Willow Creek mouth is recommended (see recommendation, page 55). By providing an alternative to boat launch- ing at the Parks Highway bridge, the new launch is intended to alleviate the problem. If conflicts continue in spite of the alterna- tive launch, it is recommended that the director exercise the Division of Parks' authority and close Willow Creek to motorized boating. Such a closure would take place after appropriate public notice and review. Visitor Education, Interpretation A nature trail is recommended as one com- ponent of an interpretive program (see recommendation, page 59). As visitation at Willow Creek increases, another component should be an active, ranger-assisted series of topical programs. A third component, which should ·· be initiated early, is the pro- duction of a brochure describing the area's natural features and resources. 47 A final educational subject should concern boating safety and handling ! techniques. With construction of the new bdat launch at the Willow Creek mouth, boa~ers will be launching into the difficult an<ji potentially dangerous waters of the Susitna River. It is recommended that the· Division of Parks take every opportunity to edud,ate boaters, with such devices as bulletin boards, lec- tures, and demonstrations. ' Archaeological Preservation The locations of facilities in this plan have been selected without the benef1it of a com- prehensive cultural resources kurvey (see recommendation, page 53). It ! is possible that a survey will discover si~nificant re- sources in an area slated for ~evelopment. In such a case, the Division of Parks should make every reasonable effort tb reroute or relocate the facilities to avoid the prehistoric resources. If rerouting or relotation is not feasible, other efforts to prese~ve the cul- tural materials will be explorectl, including excavation and removal. i I Driveways, Intersections on the Willow Creek Parkway ! i Although primarily a park road~ the Willow Creek Parkway can meet multiple use ob- jectives by providing access to i lands south of the park. The Matanuska-~usitna Bor- ough owns land bordering the p~rk. In the future, the borough may .choose to dispose of the land. In anticipation, this plan iden- tifies acceptable locations where access roads might intersect the parkway (see Figure 20, page 46). These points have been selected and spaced so as to preserve the natural experience of the parkway while providing reasonable access to outlying areas. Permits for parkway intersections will be issued by the Division of Parks only for those desig- nated poiats . Vegetation Thinning, Revegetation Most of the facilities recommended in this · plan will be located on the forested upland benches south of Willow Creek, where vege- tation limits distant views of Mount McKinley and the Alaska Range. Selective hand thinning of trees and brush should be per- formed in certain areas to enhance scenic qualities. Specific areas will be identified by landscape architects during the site planning phase of development and again during construction. During construction of new facilities, vege- tation will . inevitably be impacted by heavy. equipment. To the extent practical, im- pacted areas should be reclaimed and reve- getated. Road cut and fill slopes should be dressed with surplus topsoil and seeded or planted with native ground cover and brush species. These revegetation efforts will be detailed by landscape architects during the construction phase of development. Disposal of Construction Waste Materials Based upon investigations by the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities, it has been determined that the silty soils found on-site are not acceptable 48 road construction materials. These organic silts must be excavated, typically to a depth of two feet, and removed before suitable materials can be brought in from off-site. In order to reduce construction costs, two disposal sites within the park have been identified to receive surplus excavated material (see Figure 20, page 46). In this manner, transportation costs are reduced and these topsoils are available for later use. The disposal sites will be revegetated ac- cording to guidelines set forth by landscape architects during the site planning process. Access will be limited by gates or other barriers. Signing Because of the size and magnitude of facili- ties proposed for the Willow Creek State Recreation Area, a signing plan should be formulated at an early stage to ensure that regulatory and informational signs are both effective and consistent with park values. The sign plan will be particularly valuable during the lengthy period of development, expected to occur in phases over several years. Trapping The Willow Creek corridor supports a number of fur-bearing animals, most notably beaver. Trappers have for many years taken fur- bearers in the corridor, in a sustained yield manner which has not substantially dimin- l J n J n n n ] n n J n j] n u u [J u [j u u u r: u [l I ished populations . It is recommended that trapping be allowed to continue, with the understanding that the Department of Fish .and Game has authority for managing the area's wildlife resources. Transportation, Utility Corridors In anticipation of continued growth in the railbelt region, reconnaissance transportation and utility studies are identifying various corridors for roads, electricity transmission lines, etc. For example, the Alaska Power ·.Authority is studying route alignments for transmission lines which will be necessary if the proposed Susitna hydroelectric. project is .constructed. One possible alignment bissects the park, traveling over the proposed loca- tion of a vehicle campground. In order to preserve park values and protect recreational resources from intrusion, it is recommended by the Division of Parks that new transportation and utility corridors avoid the boundaries proposed for Willow Creek State Recreation Area. Operations and Maintenance Staffing To provide quality public recreation, it is not enough for the state to simply establish new parks and construct new facilities. Equally important is funding for staff per- sonnel, maintenance, repairs, and equipment needs. These are the operational items "which are so often neglected as budgets are formulated,_ yet they prpvide benefits which accrue directly to recreationists in the form of well-managed facilities and ranger assis- tance. As the Division of Parks makes capital fund- ing requests to implement the facilities recommendations of this plan, companion fiscal notes will also be prep'ared. The notes will detail the support functions, additional staff, special equipment, and other ongoing operational needs which the con- . struction of new facilities will bring. Figure 21, page 50, compiles the phased operational requirements at Willow Creek, designed. to coincide with the phases of facility con- struction. Hunting The Alaska Board of Game is responsible for developing hunting regulations addressing such factors as opened/ closed areas , sea- sons, species I and bag limits. The boat launch area will be heavily used ··· during the autumn big game hunting season by hunters destined for outlying areas. Because of this concentrated use I a real danger would be created by other hunters stalking the surrounding area inadvertently shooting in the direction of the launch. For public safety purposes I it is recommended that the Board of Game close the state · recreation area to all hunting during the fall big game season. Afterwards 1 when boat launching activity has declined I the area would be opened for small game hunting I with small caliber rifles and shotguns. Failing action by the Board of Game I it is · recommended that the Division of Parks exercise its authority to protect public safety by closing the area to the discharge of firearms . · 49 Figure Ill MAINTENANCE AND OPERATIONS REQUIREMENTS:* I • . corresno~ding to development phases, figure 24 PhaseAi no· mai:ntenance and operations expenses anticipar.ed . PhaseBI i personn:el 1 park ranger I (12 months) 1 park ranger I (8 months) 1 :equipment operator IV (8 months) 1 laborer ( 8 months) travel travel and per diem for ranger training prbgrams I contractual expenses vehicle rentals: · \ ton pickup (12 months) \ ton pickup (8 months) 2\ ton packer truck (8 months) 1 garbage packer unit (12 months) miscellaneous contractual expenses I I supplies fi~ewood janitorial supplies tr~il building materials I I machin~ry and equipment 2 ~ ton pickups with radios 1 ~\ ton packer truck 2 firearms for rangers 1 l::hainsaw 1 ~nowmachine and trailer 1 brushcutter 1 ,raft with outboard motor and trailer j •subject to chan~e as circumstances and management techniques evolve. 50 PhaseC ·· personnel 1 park technician I (8 months) 1 maintenance worker (8 months) travel travel and per diem for ranger training programs contractual expenses vehicle rentals: \ ton pickup (8 months) 3/4 ton pickup (8 months) miscellaneous contractual expenses supplies firewood janitorial supplies lumber trail-building materials machinery and equipment 1 \ ton pickup with radios 1 3/4 ton pickup with radios 1 chainsaw 1 3-wheel ATV and trailer (trail main- tenance) 1 portable genetator power tools paint sprayer Phase]) supplies firewood janitorial supplies n n n n n n n n n u r 1 u [J r1 u r : u r 1 lJ r : u u u u u lJ Figure 88. NON-I'AOILI~IES BEOOMMENDA~IONS PROPOSAL Enabling legis- lation Land manage- ment agreement Land acquisi- tion: Willow Island Drive Inn PHASE A A B MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES Designation as a unit of the state park system. Consolidate land man- agement responsibili- ties within proposed park boundaries . Purchase of impor- tant privately owned recreational land. Continued public access to important recreational resourc~s. JUSTIFICATION, DESCRIPTION State park units larger than 640 acres can be established only by legislative action, according to AS 38.05. 300. Because the proposed Willow Creek State Recreation Area encompasses approx- imately 3,450 acres, legislation is ·required. See Appendix B for a model bill. At present, much of the land within the proposed park boundaries is owned by the Matanuska-Susitna Borough. Therefore, the Division of Parks cannot legally develop or operate a unit of the state park system. A land management agreement in which the borough transfers management auth- ority to the Division of !'arks for a period of 55 years will allow the division to establish and enforce appropriate management regulations for the entire 3,450 acre site. The agreement will also permit the state to expend capital improve- ment funding at this site. See Appendix A. The owners of the Willow Island Drive Inn, located immediately northwest of the Willow Creek/Parks Highway intersection, have expressed an interest in selling their 12 acre parcel to the Division of Parks. A commercial camper park, boat launch, and parking area are presently operated on the site. Acquisition will ensure that important rec- reational services continue to be provided here. The· area can also serve as a staging area for foot · trails on the north shore of Willow Creek, which will disperse recreationists and reduce over- crowding near the highway. 51 RON·I'ACILI~IES RECOMMENDA~IONS , continued PROPOSAL . Fisheries en- hancement pro- gram Section line easement vacation Mineral closing order PHASE A B B MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES Provide additional sport fishing oppor- tunities. Protect park and recreational values from incompatible activities and land uses. Protect park and rec- reational values from incompatible activities and land uses. 52 JUSTIFICATION I DESCRIPTION Development of the facilities recommended in this plan will• disperse recreationists over a much larger area than is possible at present. This will allow the stream to absorb a portion of the excess demand for sport fishing found throughout Southcentral Alaska. However, . the natural stocks of king salmon and coho salmon will not support a large increase in fishing pressure. In recognition of these conditions, the Department of Fish and Game has proposed an active fisheries enhancement program, designed to provide an additional harvest of 6, 000 king salmon and 6, 000 coho salmon. This plan recommendation supports and encourages the Department of Fish and Game proposal. It is recommended that section line easements within the park unit's boundaries be formally vacated. Vacation will ensure that roads and trails through the park will be built only with the Division of Parks' express approval, and with appropriate stipulations to protect park values . Due to the extensive landscape modification, noise, heavy equipment travel, and other impacts of mining, it is incompatible with outdoor recreation. In addition, the lower Willow Creek corridor is not considered to contain important mineral resources. Therefore, it is recommended that the Willow Creek State Recreation Area be closed to all mineral entry. l J l n l n 1 n n n l J n :l l u u u u D u ll i....J ~-··-, [ i _J • 1 i .J NON·I'ACILI~IES RECOMMENDA~IONS , continued MANAGEMENT PROPOSAL PHASE OBJECTIVES Park unit, B A void public confu- name change sian over. similar park unit names, and more clearly reflect geo- graphic landmarks. Cultural re-B Preservation of arch- sources survey aeological and histor- Iical resources. JUSTIFICATION I DESCRIPTION ' Willow Creek State Recreation Site, a ,240 acre i . park unit already managed by the Division of Parks, is located one mile upstream of the proposed Willow Creek State ·Recreation Area. Although it contains frontage on Willow Creek, a more important natural feature is Deception Creek as it flows through the site. In order to avoid confusion due to similar names for the two discontiguous and gen- erally unrelated sites, it is recommended that the Willow Creek State Recreation Site be changed to Deception Creek State Recrea- tion Site. This name change is consistent ! with a Division of Parks policy of naming park units for their prominent geographic features. According to a preliminary assessment by the State Office of History and Archaeology, sev- eral areas within the proposed park unit are potential archaeological sites. Prior to facilities construction in those areas, the Office of History and Archaeology recommends that a cultural re- sources survey be performed. The s.urvey is a systematic field exploration designed to assess the presence and significance of prehistorical or historical resources. 53 Figure 23. FACILI~IES RECOMMENDA~IONS I MANAGEMENT PROPOSAL PHASE OBJECTIVES FACILITIES I I ·. · Willow Creek B Provide road access Four miles of two Parkway i to campgrounds, lane gravel road ! trailheads, parking 35 mph speed limit. I areas, boat launch, I and other activity; I I Vehicle B, Provide overnight One hundred camp- . campgrounds c, camping oppor-ing units, with tent D tunities for vehicle-pads, fire pits, pic- based recreationists. nic tables; 12 single ' vault latrines; 16 small picnic shel- ters; four water wells, miscellan- eous signs, gates, sanitary facilities, as necessary. I • 54 JUSTIFICATION I DESCRIPTION This proposal calls for construe- tion of a high quality gravel road designed for asphalt topping at a later date. Its width must be ade- quate to accommodate large recrea- tional vehicles and trailer rigs, and its design must incorporate techniques to discourage speeding (such as computing right-of-way clearing for 35 mph). Data indicates that the majority of people at Willow Creek camp in or adjacent to their vehicles, and this proposal provides the neces- sary support facilities. Four sep- arate campground areas will be de- veloped, each with approximately 25 camping units, four small picnic shelters, one water well, and three single vault latrines. This ar- rangement is on a scale attractive to recreationists and affords maxi- mum flexibility for park managers. ' J n n n n n n n l J n r i, \ r 1 w r \ J u u r 1 u u r: u fl I i w u r l u u r 1 I I. FACILI~IES RECOMMENDA~IONS· , continued PROPOSAL PHASE Boat launch B MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES Provide alternative to riverboat launch- ing at Parks High- way bridge and boat- ing on Willow Creek. Provide departure point for riverboaters bound for outlying areas. FACILITIES One double width launch; 150 pull- through parking spaces (short term); 50 pull-through · parking spaces (long term); one double vault latrine; miscellaneous signs I gates I sanitary facilities I as nec- essary. 55 JUSTIFICATION I DESCRIPTIOl';I I Boat traffic is a major issue at1 Willow Creek. A primary conc~rn is for public safety and the dan- gers created by numerous boats on a small stream such as Willow Creek. There is concern that the number and type of boats which presently travel the stream will eventually impact the stream environment negatively. Other concerns center on negative aesthetic impacts of motorized boating I including noise I fumes I and wakes interfering with shore anglers. These concerns, coupled with preliminary information which suggests that most riverboaters are destined for outlying areas I indicates that a boat launch located near the mouth of Willow Creek is appropriate. A launch at the mouth will provide an alternative to launching at the Parks High- way bridge I shorten travel time for boaters I and elim- inate dangerous conditions and environmental concerns. FACILI~IES RECO:MMENDA~IONS continued PROPOSAL PHASE Internal trail B, nebwork C, Trailhead B , par king areas C, D MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES Provide non-vehicu- lar travel corridors , connecting camp- grounds, parking areas, and other activity areas. Pro- vide opportunities for trail-based rec- reational activities. Provide necessary support facilities for walk-in campers, anglers , and other recreationists. FACILITIES Approximately six miles all-season trail; bridges, board-walks, as necessary. One hundred twenty parking spaces; three double vault latrines; one water well; miscellaneous signs , gates, sani- tary facilities, as necessary. 56 JUSTIFICATION, DESCRIPTION The most frequent complaint about existing conditions at Willow Creek is that a few locations are over- . crowded while others remain in- accessible. This proposal there- fore seeks to disperse recreation- ists throughout the area. The trails will connect most of the campgrounds, par king lots , and day-use areas and will afford access to approximately four miles . of William Creek frontage on both the north and south shores. Many visitors do not remain over- night. This proposal meets their needs by providing par king facili- ties and access to the area at large. Development will proceed as indi- cated in Figure 20, page 46. The parking area next to Lucky Shot Campground· will also serve the group picnic site (see recommen- dation, page 57), and the one next to the boat launch will con- tain a water well. ~ n ' ' I ~ ~n· : ! ' n I n ' : ' n I k n n d n ' ' L n n r l LJ r l u u r l u I 1 , I ~ u r 1 u ~ ··-, I I o....J "' ! J '1 J r ·1 u r l LJ r .1 I I I I FACILI~IES REC~:M:MENDA~IONS , continued PROPOSAL Walk-in campgrounds Boat-in campgrounds Group pic- nic area MANAGEMENT PHASE OBJECTIVES Bl c c c Provide opportuni- ties for walk-in tent camping. Avoid potential waste and litter problems. Provide opportunities for boat-based camp- ing. Provide diverse range of opportun- ities at Willow Creek 1 in addition to stream access for sport fishing. Provide area and facilities for group activities. FACILITIES Fifty camping units 1 with tent pads I picnic tables I bar beque pits; six single vault or pit latrines; miscellaneous signs I barriers I sanitary facilities I as neces- sary. Ten camping units I with tent pads 1 picnic tables 1 bar- beque pits; two pit latrines; miscella- neous signs I bar- riers I sanitary facil- ities I as necessary. Three large picnic shelters 1 with fire pits ; 12 picnic tables; one water well; miscellaneous signs 1 gates I sani- tary facilities I as necessary. 57 JUSTIFICATION I DESCRIPTION ! ' ' This proposal responds to the de- mand (see Appendix D) for walk- in camping faciliti~s while avoiding the litter and was~e problems typ- ical 6f random can'lping. The units will be from 100 feet to 1. 5 miles away from par king areas I and two of them near ithe streambank will be available tb boaters as well as to hikers . As facilities are d~veloped 1 it is expected that :qew user groups I such as riverfloaters I will be · attracted. This Rroposal pro-. vides two clusters: of five camping units for exclusive use by water-· borne recreationists. Because these units will b~ inaccessible by trail and thereifore difficult to maintain I a boat-it-in I boat-it-out practice will be encouraged. • --. I • This proposal accommodates the demand for group! activity facili:-, ties I in particular, for picnicking areas. The facilities will be designed and located so as to serve a range of group sizes I from large gatherings to family- sized parties. Pa:rking for the group picnic area • will be pro- vided at the nearby trail- head parking area (see recommen- dation I paqe 56). 1 ' I'AOILI!riBS RBOOMMBMDA!riONS continued I -' n l J ! I MANAGEMENT PROPOSAL PHASE OBJECTIVES FACILITIES JUSTIFICATION I DESCRIPTION I n L:ucky Shot c Provide,-opportunity One and a half The Lucky Shot Trail is a well 'I1rail for year-round miles all ~season defined corridor presently used trail recreation. trail; 1. 5 miles by local residents and recrea- I Commemorate the winter trail. tionists for a variety of activi-I Lucky Shot Trail as ties . In particular I dog sled- ! a historical access ders use the trail for training route into the Willow purposes and have recently Creek Mining District. made improvements to the I trail's Shirley Creek crossing. n n n l J This proposal will allow con- tinued use of this historical trail during all seasons. A portion of the trail will con-n nect campgrounds and other activities. Another portion 1 traversing the wetlands near I the· Susitna River I will be n passable only during the win- ter. Still another portion can I serve as one leg of the nature lr] , I ' j trail (see recommendation I page 59). n l J I n ~j i ; ,....., r I lJ ' ,....., '· ' I lJ ! 58 n l.J n I I L ··' r 1 I i i.J rl lJ r , LJ r 1 u r~ 1 u r , I I u r 1 I I I I ....... [1 u r ! I I I ! u r 1 u FAOILI~IES REOOMMENDA~IONS c t• ' onmue d MANAGEMENT PROPOSAL PHASE OBJECTIVES Nature trail c Interpret the area's natural and human history for park visitors. .. i FACILITIES JUSTIFICA TIO:t;J I DESCRIPTION i One and a quarter The Willow Cre~k corridor has a miles all-season rich natural an:d human history. trail; bridges and This proposal seeks to foster boardwalk as nee-appreciation .fo:r the area's values essary; interpre-through the us1e of standard tive signs; displays; trail-oriented interpretive and bulletin boards; educational devtices. The trail brochure dispens-alignment has been selected to ing station. include a range of ecological zones and a po:rtion of the his- torical Lucky ~hot Trail (see recommendation!, page 58). The trail will a1lso serve as a leg of the area~s internal trail network, which: connects campgrounds, parking areas, and· other acU~ity nodes (see recommendation, page 56). Creek frontage: will be accessible when the trail network is fully developed. i 59 FACILI~IES RECOMMENDA~IONS , continued ' PROpOSAL PHASE Willow Island C Drive Inn rehabilitation Dumping D station MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES Rehabilitate existing campground. Rede- fine camping areas, other activity areas. Provide necessary sanitary facilities. Avoid potential public health prob- lems. FACILITIES Fifty camping units, with tent pads, fire pits, picnic tables; 20 parking spaces; one water well; three double vault latrines ; six small picnic shelters; miscellaneous, gates, sanitary facilities, as neces- sary. One sewage dump station; one water well; five parking spaces ; miscel- laneous signs, sanitary facilities, as necessary. 60 JUSTIFICATION, DESCRIPTION After acquisition of this pri- vately-owned campground (see recommendation, page 51), it will be necessary to reha- bilitate selected areas in order to efficiently manage the grounds. For instance, the existing hamburger stand should be converted to a ranger station with equipment storage, bulle- tin boards, etc. The present boat trailer storage area might be used for additional camping units. Other areas should be revegetated, in order to provide highway and streamside buffers. As the facilities recommended in this plan are constructed over the course of several years, demand for a sewage dump station will increase. In the event that the private sector does not satisfy this demand by providing a dump sta- tion in the vicinity, this proposal, during the last phase of development, acts to prevent a potential litter and pollution problem within the state recreation area. n ! I l J n n ! I L .J n n l j n n u n l ,J n n ~ i I ! I ,_j I , J l'"l I . I , u I' u u u r : u r~ I : u ' 1 I : u r , I I ' ! LJ r , I i I 7 IMPLEMEN~A~ION Phasing The recommendations of this plan are in- tended to be implemented in phases over a period of several years. Figure 24, page 62, details the phases of development. Four phases are employed, with A, B, C, and D designations. All phase A recommendations should be implemented concurrently, and prior to phase B recommendations. Phase B recommendations should occur prior to C's, and so forth. Plan Deviations, Modifications At the time of publication, this plan will represent the best efforts of the Division of Parks to analyze Willow Creek's natural features for their capability to provide sustained outdoor recreational opportunities without significantly compromising the area's natural character, and to recominend a program for management and development of the area. The adopted master plan is a policy statement for the unit, requiring that developments, uses, and management must be in accordance with its directions. However, 61 the plan must be flexible i~ order to ad~pt to changing_ circumstances and new informa- tion. The procedure listed i below is devel- oped to permit . this flexib~lity and ensu.re that the plan continues to be· a useful man- : ' agement tool. It is excerpted from the proposed Standard Operating Procedures for State Park Master Planning. 1. Periodic Review. The planning section • will coordinate periodic review of the ~aster plan when the director considers ~t necessary and so directs. The decision to review the master plan may be triggered by 0 0 0 0 0 written public or ~gency requests for review; . policy changes within the Divis~on of Parks; , availability of new data; availability of new technology; or, changing social or economic conditions that iplace different demands on the park or affect the division's capabilities. Figure 24. PHASING BBCO:M:MENDA~IONS Proposal Phase A Enabling legislation Land management agreement Fisheries enhancement program PhaseB Land acquisition: Willow Island Drive Inn Mineral closing order Park unit name change · Cultural resources survey Section line easement vacation Willow Creek Parkway Boat launch Vehicle campground Walk-in campgrounds Internal trail network Trailhead parking areas PhaseC Vehicle campgrounds (continued) Walk.:.in campgrounds (continued) B®t-in campgrounds Willow Island Drive Inn rehabilitation Lucky Shot Trail Nature trail Internal trail network (continued) Non-Facility Proposal X X X X X X X X Trailhead parking areas (continued) Group picnic area ' PhaseD Vehicle campground (continued) Trailhead par king area (continued) Dumping station 62 Facility Proposal X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Described on page 51 51 52 51 52 53 53 52 54 55 54 57 56 56 53 57 57 60 59 59 56 ·56 57 54 56 60 Mapped on page __ .·; .. 45 45 45 45 45 45 45 45 45 45 45 45 45 45 45 45 45 45 n u J n n r] . I 'J n lJ n n u n n r l I I u f 1 u r , I ; LJ r· 1 I . L r ' I : u r 1 LJ r 1 u ( 1 I I , I LJ F l I ! ' i The master plan review will include meetings, as appropriate, with inter- ested groups, the general public, affected agencies, the district super- intendent, and other Division of Parks personnel. The periodic review will lead to one of the following actions: a. No modification of the plan. b. Modification of the plan. c. Granting of a special exception. Items "b" and "c" are explained in detail below. 2. Modification of the Plan a. Minor changes. These are changes which, if accomplished, would not cause a deviation from the original intent of the master plan. Minor changes may be necessary for clarification, consistency, or to facilitate implementation of the master plan. Minor changes do not require public review but must be coordinated with the district superintendent and appropriate staff. b. Major changes. These are changes which, if accomplished, would cause a deviation from the original intent of the master plan. Major changes require public notice and review prior to adoption. 3. Granting of a Special Exception 63 Exceptions to the provisions of the master plan may be made without modi.;. fication of the plan. Special exceptions shall occur only when complying with the plan is excessively difficult or impractical and an alternative procedure can be implemented which adheres to the purposes and spirit of the plan~ The Division of Parks may make a special exception in the implementation of the plan through the following pro'- cedures: a. The person or agency requesting the special exception shall prepare a written finding which specifies 0 the nature of the special exception requested; o the extenuating conditions which require a special ex:- ception; 0 the alternative course of action to be followed; o and, how the intent of the plan will be met by the alter- native. b. The director will review the find- ings and issue a determination. If warranted by the degree of con- troversy or the potential impact, the director will hold a public hearing before reaching a decision. c. The decision of the director may be appealed to the Commissioner of the Department of Natural Re- sources, whose decision will be final. u r 1 L.: lJ L r ' i i w u l u f1 L; D D u APPENDICES A. Willow Creek State Recreation Area Management Agreement Between Matanuska-Susitna Borough and the State of Alaska, Division of Parks This Management Agreement is made and entered into for the purpose of providing beneficial public use of lands at Willow Creek now under the jurisdiction of the Matan- uska-Susitna Borough, hereinafter referred to as "the Borough," with such public use being . under the control and maintenance responsibility of the State of Alaska, Depart- ment of Natural · Resources, Division of Par"ks, hereinafter called "the State.". WHEREAS, · the · Borough recognipes the unique .natural . featu-res of the area and desires to preserve the ·habitat, protect the stream from any detrimental development, and cooperate in its development as a public recreational area; and 65 WHEREAS, the Borough ~as retained and classified as "Public Recr~ation Lands" the lands near the mouth of Willow Creek; and ! WHEREAS, the State of i Alaska has ' the capability to manage this site for the recrea- tional use of the public as ~ State Recrea'tion Area and has the capacity for improving and maintaining this site for suqh use; and ' WHEREAS, pursuant to ifatanuska-Susitna Borough Resolution 81-1291 the Managen is authorized to negotiate a M~nagement Agree- ment with the Alaska Division of Parks subject to final approval BY the Assembly; I NOW THEREFORE, ·the Boro~gh grants to. the. State a 55 year Managemeljlt Agreement , fo.r . ~se of the described land ~~ a public recFea:- tJon area,. subject to the following terms .and conditions: · : · '· s~ction 1 LAN'D usE· AGREEMENT '. l. The,· s·ta;e ·and Borough agree th9t both the State and Borough lands covered by this Agreement shall be the State for outdoor recreation, wildlife habitat, and open space purposes. Any other use will result in immediate termination of the Management Agreement. 2. The Division of Parks shall manage Borough owned lands as part of the Alaska State Park System and in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement. . 3. Borough lands · ·covered: hy this Agreement ·are described as fol- lows: Township 19 North, Range 4· West, Seward Meridian, Section 6 NW\ Township 19 North, Range 5 West, Seward Meridian~ Sections 1 and 2 Township 20 North, Range 5 West, Seward Meridian, Section 35, Sec- tion 34 east of a branch of the Susitna River. 4. State lands covered by this Agree.- ment . are described as follows: Township 19. North, Range 5 West, Seward Meridian, Section 3 N~ Township 20 North, Range 4 West,: Seward ·Meridian, Section 31 S~ S~ west of the Parks Highway Township 20 North, Range 5 West, Seward Meridian I Section 36 s~, 66 Section 34 composed of islands within the Susitna River. Section 2 RESPONSIBILITies Of THE DIVlSION Of' PARKS·· 1. Pursue jointly with the Borough and support the legislative estab- lishment and funding. :t:or the development, operation, ··.and main- tenance of . Willow · ... Creek · State Recreation Area. 2. Assign field staff to the operation, maintenance, and management of the recreation area, provide visitor information services, facilities, public safety, · and enforcement of park regulations. 3. Budget yearly for maintenance, operations, and staffing costs . 4. Work jointly with the Borough in providing opportunities for summer youth employment · and local sea- sonal employment in accordance with state and local laws. · 5. . Assum,e management liability and risk insurance· and responsibility for land use, facility repair, replacement, or upgrading. The Matanuska-Susitna Borough shall be held harmless from any liability or claims of whatever kind arising from the management of the lands described in this Agreement. l ~ j l l l '.I !l '' J ' . :l n n u [J u u L J ' u u u u r 1 I l 6. Commit park staff to the planning, design, and engineering of any facilities or development of the proposed Willow Creek State Rec- reation Area. Section 3 RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE MATANUSKA-SUSITNA BOROUGH 1. Grant to the Division of Parks management authority for borough owned lands described in Section 1 of this Agreement. 2. Pursue jointly with the State and support the legislative establish- ment and funding for the develop- ment, operation, and maintenance of Willow Creek State Recreation Area. 3. Work jointly with . the State in providing opportunities for summer youth employment and local sea- sonal employment · in accordance with state and local laws. 4. Provide technical assistance to the State in cooperative planning, design, and engineering work. Section 4 SPECIAL PROVISIONS 1. The· Borough .and the State shall jointly participate in the develop- ment of a master plan for the land under this Agreement, including any subsequent amendments to that plan. 67 2. Management objectives for State land shall consider the impacts on lands under this Agreement and the type and scale of recreational opportunity being provided. 3. The Borough owned lands involved in this Agreement may be used by the State only for the stated purposes under the management of the State of · Alaska, Division of Parks. Other uses of these lands by other agencies, bodies, or individuals shall be prohibited except by special use permit issued jointly by the Borough and the State. Incompatible uses shall be defined as those activities which are not related to the char- acter of the site or management objectives for the area as defined in the master plan. 4. No . provision of this Agreement shall obligate either party to expend funds in excess of appro- priations authorized by law or ordinance. 5. No provision of this Agreement shall prevent the State from insti- tuting a system of ·user fee.s, to be collected from visitors to the described land. Revenues from such a fee system shall accrue to the State, the Borough, or to a third party previously approved by the Borough and State. Section 5 DI~CRIMINATION PROHIBITED ' Th~ State and Borough agree to Colllply with Title Si.x of the Civil Ri9jhts Act of 1964 and equal em:gloyment opportunities. No penson shall, on the grounds of rae~, . color, or national origin be exqluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or be oth~rwise subjected to discrimin- ation in the use or occupancy of the: above described lands or of the I accommodations, facilities, ser:Vices, or privileges furnished thereon. Section 6 TERM This Agreement shall become effective upon its· execution by bo~h parties and shall continue in effect for 55 years unless earlier tedninated under the terms of this Agreement. Modifications, re- ne~als, or extensions shall be by wr~tten mutual consent of the parties. I Section 7 TEE.MINATION 1. Thi~ Agreement may be terminated for 1·good cause by either party by giv~ng one year written notice. Grounds for termination shall be bas~d on the inability of the State to manage the site for recreational 68 purposes, or a violation of the terms of this Agreement, or a desire and commitment on the part of the Borough to manage the site for recreational purposes, or emergency or substantial public need to convert the lands covered by this ·Agreement to other uses. A proposed conversion of use of the · site to other purposes shall require a public hearing and determination of public interest by the borough assembly. · 2. If the state legislature fails to establish the described lands as a State Recreation Area within 3 years of the effective date of this Agreement, this Agreement shall be reviewed for reconsideration by both parties . Section 8 ASSIGNMENT This Agreement shall not be as- signed to any third party without written mutual concurrence of both parties to this Agreement. The Borough and the State shall not establish or dedicate any other interests in the land or its man- agement without . mutual written agreement. IN WITNESS WHEREOF: The parties to this Agreement have in good faith executed this Agreement as testified below: ,J n n ll n l l i J n n .n u u u D 0 Ll u lJ [ , L l u r 1 1.-...J MATANUSKA-SUSITNA BOROUGH STATE OF ALASKA By: N~e~i~l~C~.-=r~oh~a_n_n_s_e_n __________ _ Director Alaska Division of Parks Date: ------------~--------- B • MODEL ENABLING LEGISLATION IN THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF ALASKA THIRTEENTH LEGISLATURE - FIRST SESSION A BILL 69 For an Act entitled: 11 An Act establishing the Willow Creek State Recreation Area; and providing for an effective date. 11 BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF ALASKA: *Section 1. , AS 41. 20 is amended by adding new sections to read: Sec. 41.20. 507. ESTABLISHMENT AND MANAGEMENT. (a) The land and water presently owned by the state and all land and water acquired in the future by. the state lying within the parcels described. in (c) of this section are designated as the Willow Creek State Recreation Area, reserved from all uses incompatible with the uses stated . in AS 41. 20. 506 and assigned to the Department of. Natural Resources for control, development, and maintenance. (b) The Department of Natural Re- sources may agree to manage land owned by the Matanuska-Susitna Borough that is within the parcels described .in (c) of this section and that is transferred by ordinance or resolution of the borough to ·the department , for management as a part of the Willow Creek State Recreation· Area. (c) The state land and water presently · owned, the state land and water acquired in ' the . future, ·· and the land and water owned by the Matanuska-Susitna Borough and transferred to the Department of · Natural Resources for management under (b) of this . section that are within the parcels described ' in this subsection are designated as the Willow Creek State Recreation Area, with a total acreage of approximately 3 , 440 acres : Township 19 North, Range 4 West, Seward Meridian Section 6 N~ Township 19 North, Range 5 West, Seward. Meridian Sections 1 and 2 . Section 3~ Township 20 North, Range 4 West, Seward Meridian Section 31 S~ S~ West of Parks Highway ·Township 20 · North, Range 5 West, Seward Meridian Section 36 S~ Section· 35 Section 34 70 (d) By proclamation of the governor, the boundaries of the Willow Creek State Recreation Area may be amended to include state land acquired by the commissioner of natural resources consistent with AS 41.20. 512. Such a boundary amendment shall not exceed 80 acres in area. (e) The commissioner of natural re- sources shall develop a master plan .for the use and development of the Willow Creek State Recreation Area in cooperation with the Matanuska-Susitna Borough and the Depart- ment of Fish and Game. (f) The Department of Fish and Game is responsible for the management of the fishery and wildlife resources in the Willow Creek State Recreation Area consistent with the purposes of AS 41. 20. 506 and shall consult with the commissioner of natural resources before adopting regulations gov- erning the fishery and wildlife resources of the Willow . Creek State Recreation Area. Section 41. 20. 508. INCOMPATIBLE USES PROHIBITED. The commissioner of natural resources may prohibit uses of the land within the boundaries of the Willow Creek State Recreation Area if the uses are incompatible with the purposes of the recrea- tion area under AS 41. 20. 506. :. · .· · · _.. ;.., . Sec .. 41.20.512 ... PURCHASE :AUTHOR- IZED. The commissioner of natural re- sources may ·acquire, by purchase in · the name of the state, title to or interest in real property lying within or abutting the boun-· daries of the Willow · Creek State Recreation Area. *Section 2. This act takes effect July 1, 1983. u n n n n:.: ,, n n n u u u u u u c u u u u u u r 1 c . PUBLIC MEETING SUMMARY Anchorarce, August 5, 1981 The folowing is a summary of events and comments at the August 5, 1981, public meeting at the Pioneer School House, Anch- orage, concerning park · development along Willow Creek. Four people attended. David Stephens introduced himself and other state parks staff working on this project: S!'lndy Rabinowitch, Linda Cyra-Korsgaard, and Park Ranger Dennis Heikes. Stephens outlined the agenda for the meeting, pointing out that the meeting's intent was to gather information, not to present any formal pro- posals. Sandy Rabinowitch reviewed the history of the project, which began as a road and boat launch proposal in 1970. He discussed the need to improve upon the existing Willow Creek Wayside, which had resulted in a 1978 bond appropriation of $495,000. Linda Cyra'-Korsgaard conducted a slide show to familiarize meeting participants with the stream and study area. Discussion focused on the natural features of the stream corridor. The original 1970 proposal to build a road on the north shore of Willow Creek and a boat launch at the mouth was discussed and supported by one participant. 71 One person favored the road/boat launch proposal as a means to protect Willow Creek from riverboat congestion while still pro- viding access to the Susitna River. Another person agreed that boat traffic is sometimes congested and surely must damage fish populations. I Discussion followed on the land status along Willow Creek and the need to cooperate with the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, which owns much of the land. The present state p~rk wayside was again discussed. Various problems were mentioned, including sur- rounding private lands, loss of campgrounds due to riverbank erosion, Deception Creek and Willow Creek flooding 1 and lack 1 of access to park lands north of Willow Cre'ek. The potential for a trade of land with the borough was pointed out. There was discussion about the number of old river meander channels and the diffi- culties of transporting people and vehiciles over such channels. Development of the flood plain areas was discussed I with one person citing a study by the Department of Fish & ·Game. The Mat- anuska-Susitna Borough flood plain devel- opment ordinance was also mentioned. One person asked about the soils· along Willow Creek and their capability to with- stand development of roads and trails. One person favored road development to the north of Willow Creek, due to state land ownership aAd fewer abandoned . meander channels. Another cautipned against direct competition ·with private 1 , businesses and stressed the need for cooperation in developing facilities that complem!ent each other rather than compete. Participants ~ere asked about the possibility of building qamping facilities several miles north of Willow Creek and .no camping in the immediate area. The meeting ' 1 Was adjourned at 10:00 p.m. Willow, August 6, 1981 The following', is a summary of events and comments at i the August 6, 1981, public meeting at ~he Willow Elementary School concerning development along Willow Creek. Twenty-five p~ople attended. I Sandy Rabinqwitch introduced himself and other state patks staff: Larry Wilde, Dennis Heikes, Daviq Stephens, and Linda Cyra- Korsgaard. I;arry Engel, from the Depart- rp.ent of Fish & Game, was also introduced as a member of ~he planning team assembled to guide the development of the Willow Creek Master Plan. · ' i Mr. Rabinowitd:h traced the evolution of this :project from ~ proposal originally made in ~970 to build I a road· north of Willow Creek and a public I boat launch at its confluence with the Susitna River. He also explained that the purpdse of this first meeting was to 72 gather general comments and information on Willow Creek rather than any specific draft plan or proposal. Larry Wilde, Superintendent of the Mat-Su District, discussed the management difficul- ties now faced at the present Willow Creek Wayside, including flooding, bank erosion, forest deterioration, recreational trespass, and lack of expansion potential due to adja- cent private land. He also discussed the possibility of developing wayside lands north of Willow Creek. This would require either bridging Willow Creek or building a road spur from the Parks Highway north of the river. David Stephens outlined the planning process to be followed on this project, emphasizing that the meeting was part of the initial inventory phase. He explained that a second meeting wo1.;1ld be held in late Sep- tember/early October for review of the draft master plan. The meeting was then opened to general discussion, summarized here. One person questioned the need for any new development, citing a boat launch at Susitna Landing ten miles north and recreation facilities at Nancy Lake Recreation Area ten miles south. He also stated that improved access to Willow Creek would shorten the king salmon season and damage the local economy. Another suggested a new easterly road departing the Parks Highway north of Willow Creek, opening existing wayside lands for new development. ] n n J n n n 1 n l n n n n u u u r 1 u u u U ·. . ' ··ul . ' U.· .. ' . ' One person pointed out that the ·State Div- ISion of Parks would secure management authority over Willow Creek with the estab- lishment of a state recreation area. With that authority, the stream could be closed to river boat traffic while no alternative launches were . provided. In effect, this would force· boaters to use one of the three launches further north (Susitna Landing, Talkeetna, and Parks Highway Susitna River Bridge). ·Another favored State Division of Parks. control of both banks of Willow Creek. Another person spoke in favor of road access to the mouth of Willow Creek and a boat launch. Another person opposed road development, asserting that access would be too easy and that · the quality recreational experience now enjoyed by a few is better than a degraded experience open to many. It was repeated that a road should be built along the section line from the Parks High- way to existing wayside lands north of Willow . Creek. Ranger Heikes pointed out that this might create a problem with unintentional. trespass on private property upstream of the park lands. He also indicated that the area is upstream of the Deception Creek conflu- ence and hence closed to salmon fishing. Another person spoke in favor of a boat launch at the mouth of Willow Creek, saying that 80% of the stream's traffic is bound for outlying areas. 73 One person said that the presence of a private launching facility at Susitna Landing should not preclude a boat launch at Willow Creek. One person said that there is a danger of creating a "Russian River North." Another said that too much· access could lead to a 'complete. fishing closure' which would damage rather than improve the local econ- omy. It was pointed out that airboats are :now ·traveling north of Deception Creek · and to king salmon spawning grounds . One person opposed state park establishment at Willow Creek as a ploy to eliminate boat traffic. Another said that the ideal situation exists today, with public land ownership along 1 the lower stream and limited access. A distinction was made between jet boats and air boats, each type having different impacts on the stream environment. Another person spoke in favor of trail devel- opment along both sides of Willow Creek, with tent camping areas . Another wanted bicycle trails. One person spoke of the need for a regional analysis of recreational patterns and :the possibility of a boat launch at Little Willow Creek. He also said . that closure of Willow . Creek would eliminate an exciting and chal- lenging river boating opportunity. It was indicated that the fishing area at the mouth of Willow Creek could accommodate a maximum of ten boats and 30-40 bank fish- ermen. Larry Engel of the Department of Fish & Game spoke about the possibility of fisheries enhancement I indicating that it is technically possible to increase the king salmon run and therefore raise the catch limit. Another indicated that the plan should also address other recreational activities I includ- ing hiking 1 skiing I dogsled ding I and snow- machining. He also said that there should be some trail connection with the Hatcher Pass area. tiiscussion followed on floodplain development and the Matanuska-Susitna Borough flood- plain development ordinance. Another person asked about the possibility of bank stabilization efforts along Deception Creek in the present wayside. Facilities for older or handicapped users were encouraged 1 including a road and trails to the mouth of Willow Creek. The meeting was adjourned at 10:30 p.m. Willow 1 October 6 1 1981 The following is a summary of events and comments at the October 61 19811 public meeting held at Willow Elementary School c;oncerning development along Willow Creek. Thirteen people attended . 74 Dave Stephens introduced himself and other State Division of Parks staff: Sandy Rabinowitchl Linda Cyra..:Korsgaardl Dennis Heikes I and Daryl Haggstrom. Two repre- sentatives from the Mat-Su Borough were present: Nicki Harris and Rodney Schulling. Mr. Stephens quickly traced the evolution of this project I then turned to our progress since the last meeting. He discussed the results from the questionnaire. Linda Cyra-Korsgaard then presented five alter- native development plans. The meeting was then opened to general discussion I summar- ized here. The first point brought up w,as the need for more maintenance and operations personnel if Willow Creek is to be developed. The next question pointed towards the foot bridge crossing Willow Creek: what type it would be and how it would affect boat traf- fic. Sandy answered that it would be high enough not to impede boat traffic. Dave mentioned it would be single span I eight feet wide 1 and structurally built to allow for a three wheel maintenance vehicle. One person asked why we heed to cross Willow Creek. Dennis answered that some of the best camping is on the south side and that the best fishing at the mouth is on the southern channel. One person asked what kind and how much maintenance is required on a foot trail. Dennis explained he would like to have a "pack it out" policy but knows he will still I j n l n n n n l n n n L J n l n u c I· L c u u c r , u [J [j f1 have to service the latrines and pick-up ground litter. Another person asked at what point we would cut off boat traffic. Dave explained that according to our questionnaire results, public meetings, and interviews, the boat ramp would take care of the boat traffic problem on Willow Creek. We wouldn't recommend closing it right off the bat. Another person asked who has the authority to close Willow Creek to boat traffic --Fish & Game, Coast Guard? Sandy explained that when and if Willow Creek becomes a state park, the director of the Division of Parks has the power to close the creek to boat traffic. One person stated that he would like to see a park built but fears it would give rise to violence between boaters and fishermen. He believed we needed to assure boaters we will not close the stream. We stated again that until we had a viable alternative, the stream would not be closed. One person voiced his concern over the king salmon. One person supported Plan B but opposed Plan A (bad ground) and Plan C (inter- ference with private sector). Another person returned to the boat traffic problem. He thought we had not addressed . it and believed it would be unfair to invite the public to camp and fish on Willow Creek without being advised of the noise and volume of boat traffic. 75 One person suggested forgetting Altern~tive B and building all of Alternative D to avoid boat traffic problems. A general con census was then reached ' that the road arid boat ramp are the highest priorities, with establishment of camping facilities . and foot trails following. It was also mentioned that this procedure would facilitate building foot trails. · Someone questioned what would happen to the old wayside. Several people questioned the borotigh's plans for the south bluff. They bel~eved borough personnel had been surveying there. One man asked how we determine what , plan to use and what our next steps were. Rodney Schulling from the Borough Planning Department outlined the joint planning-man- agement being discussed and explained the Borough Planning Commission's role. Dennis explained that after the land status is re- solved the recommendations from the master plans will be used in applying for Capital Improvement Funds ( CIP) for construction. Another man asked if the original CIP funds were designated for the existing wayside and, if so, how they could be switched over to the master plan project. One man went on record as saying he pro- tests all of the Division of Parks priorities . The problem he sees is insufficient disbursal of hunters and fishermen: The state is spending money on amenities in a few places, b-ut what it s~ould spend money on are more roads to new : places. He said that people will take care 1 of themselves once they get there. Another man 1asked .· if Fish & Game would open the area up to Deception Creek for king salmon fi~hing. . ' i One person aavised that the boat ramp be built as soon: as possible after Phase B. This would help resolve the boating issue most quickly. Another person urged that the entire plan be put into effect simultaneously in order to alleviate the critical situation existing be- tween boater~ and streamside fishermen. There were some questions about the location of the boat rabp. The location on Alterna- tive E was crit1i,cized as being on a cut bank, with the stre~m being too fast to permit launching a boat. He preferred the location to the north. 76 Someone pointed out that Plan B, if imple- mented next season, would increase dras- tically the conflict between fishermen · and boaters. His solution was to buy out the private property owners on the southeast side of the Parks Highway bridge for a large camping area; · thereby keeping the fishermen upstream from the boaters, He stated that he knew some of the land was for sale. One person mentioned that if the boat launch was located north of the mouth the floaters would not have a take-out point. He sug- gested an earlier take-out point on Willow Creek. · · There was also concern for boater safety on the Susitna River. Another said that when the river is exposed to more people, it should be closed to boat traffic. Another man asked what the boundaries of the new park might be. n n n n n n n n n n r , LJ u 11 u r ~ LJ n LJ u u u r 1 u u u 11 u r 1 D. OPINION SURVEY RESULTS A total of 209 questionnaires were passed out, broken down as follows.! The 29 people attending a first round of public meetings in Anchorage and Willow we~e asked to par- ticipate. Park rangers also passed out 100 forms to fishermen and rec~eationists at the Willow Creek Wayside. Finally, 80 questionnaires were mailed to people wtio had previously participated in a Department of Fish & Game. survey of Willow Creek. Of the total 209 pos- sible returns , 52 were returned by mail, equaling a 25% return rate. The following tables report percentage tabulations of the 52 returned quest~onnaires, separ- ated into Mat-Su and Anchorage groups. In most cases, the percentages ar~ based upon the number of possible responses (38 for Anchorage, 14 for Mat-Su). In other: cases (questions five, six, and eleven) the percentages are based upon the number of responses to that question. 1. 2. How many times per year do you fish or visit Willow Creek? average value mean value Mat-Su . 4.93 5-6 Anchorage 5.03 5-6 What recreational activities do you now participate in at Willow Creek? ! Mat-Su sport fishing 86% -hunting 8% -camping 43% -picnicking 29% -river floating 0% -river boating 0% -hiking 8% -other (dogmushing) 8% ex-country skiing) 8% (flying) 0% 77 Anchorage 97% 17% 56% 28% 0% 17% 17% 0% 0% 3% 3. Where db you live? Mat-Su 27% Anchorage 73% 4. How long do you typically stay at Willow Creek? i lless than one day 1one to Dwo days more than two days Mat-Su 64% 36% 0% Anchorage. 29% 51% 20% 5. Which of the following recreational activities and facilities (which may or may not be presently available) do you feel are appropriate at Willow Creek? facilities. foot trails I boardwalks 1 -oven-light cabins -campgrounds -access roads _picnirl sites I shelters boat launches -day par king areas -lodge~/hotels/motels -conv~nience stores play fields activities hunting -fishitig -hiking -campi!ng -x-cotintry skiing -_raftirtg -river boating -snowmachining photqgraphy /sightseeing Mat-Su bridges 100% 25% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 17% 43% 33% 57% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 50% 75% 100% 78 Anchorage 86% 32% 88% 64% 86% 74% 91% 0% 29% 35% 80% 97% 93% 100% 90% 78% 63% 55% ·-92% n n l J n n u n i I L .J n D u 0 D 0 D D D D D 1 J / 0 D [J 6. 7. 8. Which do you believe are inappropriate for Willow Creek? facilities _foot trails , boardwalks , overnight cabins =campgrounds access roads -picnic sites 1 shelters -boat launches -day parking areas lodges/hotels/motels convenience stores · play fields activities hunting -fishing -hiking .-camping -x-country skiing -rafting -river boating -snowmachining -photography /sightseeing Mat-Su bridges O% 75% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 83% 57% 67% 43% 0% 0% 0% 0% 2% 50% 25% 0% What attracts you to Willow Creek? Anchorage 14% 68% 12% 32% 14% 26% 9% 100% 71% 65% 10% 3% 7% 0% 10% 22% 37% 45% 8% Sport fishing is the primary attraction at Willow Creek for Anchorage and Mat-Su resi- dents. Other important factors are the area's accessibility and its pleasant atmosphere. Anchorage residents also indicate that the stream provides access to downstream areas such as the Deshka River. What problems discourage you from visiting Willow Creek and decrease your enjoyment? Overcrowding was most often mentioned as a negative feature. Anchorage responses next shoed poor maintenance 1 while local residents complained of boat traffic on Willow Creek. Another problem cited is a lack of developed camping areas. 79 9. 10. 11. What types of overnight accommodations do you use? self-contained motor vehicle -carside tent camping -small travel trailer -walk-in tent camping _private cabin rent cabin/lodge -other (inside car) -(boat) Mat-Su 64% 21% 7% 29% 7% 0% 0% 0% Anchorage 39% 28% 19% 28% 14% 0% 39.: . 0 3% If overnight camping areas were to be. developed at Willow Creek, where should they be located? on the stream bank -a short walk from the creek -(a quarter mile) a short drive from the creek -(one to five miles) Mat-Su 36% 79% 0% Anchorag.e 22% 64% 25% Are you satisfied with your fishing success rate at Willow Creek for: Mat-Su Anchorage _King Salmon Yes 0% 33% No 50% 50% N/A 50% 17% Pink Salmon Yes 70% 81% No 10% 6% N/A 20% 13% Chum Salmon Yes 40% 57% No 20% 19% N/A 40% 24% 80 n n n n n n n l 1 \j: L. -~~ n c ' n n r· LJ. .-, 'l I I u [J I : ! I L1 •• l I [-: I w u D Silver Salmon Yes No N/A Resident Species Yes No N/A The following are miscellaneous comments received, organized according to the respon-. dent's place of residency. They are tran- scribed literally. Mat-Su Respondents Overcrowding. Clean up what you got. Willow Creek Wayside is a mess with trash overflowing the barrels. We don't need more traffic/people on the creek causing navigation problems and overfishing. Snowmachines should be kept out of the entire area. They keep the animal chased so far back from the road no one else can even see them. The most urgent need is for addi- tional parking and foot trails (that could be used by x_;country skiers and snowmachines) . 56% 22% 22% 0% 50% 50% 57% 38% 5% 48% 14% 38% An access road and possible camp- grounds would; k~ep the bulk of people/pedestrians : away from the highway. Provide more area for people · to "get away." Provide more of a: camping atmos- phere rather than ; along the high-• way. · Give more "plain" :people a chance to catch fish and have fun besides boat owners, etc. : My primary interest is access to the Susitna River. Fishing is improved at the Kroto 1 Lake Creek and the Alexander. Crossing Cook Inlet for access is not dependable. The recent state land disposal programs on the west side of the Susitna River will also increase, the need for access. Are there any plans to extend the Nancy Lake roads on to the Susit- na? This would provide a more optimum access point. If Willow Creek were developed with Susitna access followed by Nancy Lake Road access to the Susitna I usage at Willow would be very low I believe. This is our first visit and its · pouring · rain so we're not explor- ing much. Therefore we're not familiar enough with park to answer fully. Better drainage of area and elevated (and drained) tent pad areas would be great. Better stocking of non-spawning fish. · An enforced time limit should be established on any campsite pro- vided by the State. We own 3 acres within a mile that has a· rental on it. .Also we own a cabin on Willow Lake and we go up for the weekend probably 15 times a year. I feel that commercial facilities should be limited along the bank of Willow. Riverboats should be restricted due to the presently crowded conditions. Riverboat operators . frequently camp or set up business. for the entire summer. They contribute significantly to the garbage and human waste problem. They provide a potential danger to foot campers and fisher- men. Their noise level is too . much to deal. with during a week- end outing.· Major opportunity is to preserve a relatively undeveloped creek. Treat Big Willow and Little Willow as one system --develop Little Willow if development is mandatory. Airboats upstream of bridge are inappropriate. Don't develop -leave rural. Develop .both sides of Willow Creek from the highway to the Susitna River. Also both sides east of the highway a~ far as practical. 1. No cabins 1 lodges 1 hotels 1 restaurants. 2. Small area · for RV's near highway. 3. Majority of area for tent camping and picnicking. 4. Open year round -encourage use I small fee acceptable to ensure cleanliness. 5. Boat launch @ Susitna River. u l n n n J n l '~ .l n I~ u n ; I L.l L' ' L l c [! u [J r ,~ I ' u u D [ ' : I feel that a boat ramp on the Susitna River, near the mouth of Willow Creek would be a very desirable asset. Access road to mouth of river. 83 Co-op with Borough essential and with private owners. Access road to mouth of river would be very nice ! u r 1 LJ u u r r Ll u r ' u r _J 11 LJ L rr 1 LL 111 UJ rr, BIBLIOGRAPHY Alaska Department of Natural Resources. 1977. Resource Bibliography: Susitna River Basin. Alaska Department of Natural Resources. 1979. Re- source Bibliography: Susitna River Basin Supplement. 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B. and Hinton I R. B. ' · . 1973. Soil Survey: Susitna Valley i . Area 1 Alaska. Washington 1 D.C. : U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service. 86 Selkregg 1 L. L. et al. 197 4. Alaska Re- ~ Profiles, Southcentral Region. AnCnorage 1 Alaska: University of Alaska, Arctic Environmental Informa- tion and Data Center. U. S. Army Engineer I Corps of Engineers I Alaska District. 1980. Expanded Flood Plain Information\· . S,ti.lft.:. : Willow I AlaSka.· ·.Anchorage, A aska·: Army Corps of Engineers . Watsjold I D. A. and .Engel I L. J. . 1978. Fisheries Studies.. Alaska Capital Site Planning Commission, Source Document No. 2. _, .... .l_j· ; I rn_l ' I l il 'll I 'J J. I ml : I ~ lJ T , I ~ I :n_l ~-u m L_L 1\' : IJ l,l