HomeMy WebLinkAboutSummary of Environmental Knowledge of the Proposed Grant Lake Hydroelectric Project Area 1982....
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SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL KNOWLEDGE OF THE
PROPOSED GRANT LAKE HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT AREA
FINAL REPORT
Prepared by:
Arctic Environmental Information
and Data Center
University of Alaska
707 A Street
Anchorage, Alaska 99501
Submitted to:
Ebasco Services, Inc.
4040 148th Avenue, N.E.
Redmond, Washington 98052
For:
The Alaska Power
334 W. 5th Avenue,
Anchorage, AK
Authority
2nd Floor
99501
September 1982
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SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL KNOWLEDGE
OF THE PROPOSED GRANT LAKE HYDROELECTRIC
PROJECT AREA
FINAL REPORT
This report was prepared by the following
AEIDC st('j.ff
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David E. Trudgen, Co-Principal Investigator, wildlife Biologist
William J. Wilson, Co-Principal Investigator, Fisheries Biologist
Sal V. Cuccarese, wildlife Biologist
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David L. Spencer, wildlife Biologist
Richard J. Hensel, Wildlife Biologist
-Michael D. Kelly, Fisheries Biologist -James G. Thiele, Fisheries Biologist -Margaret S. Floyd, Biologist -Katherine L. Arndt, Archeologist
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
This report was accomplished with the assistance of many indivi-
duals. Special thanks is extended to Ken Manning of R & M Consultants,
Inc. for arranging all logistical support for our field activities. We
thank Cliff and Starr Judkins of Crown Point Lodge in Moose Pass,
Alaska, for providing comfortable lodging and keeping us well fed.
Recognition is due federal and state agency personnel who provided the
study team useful data. In particular, we thank individuals from the
Divisions of Game, Sport Fish, and Fisheries Rehabilitation, Enhancement
and Development of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game in Soldotna,
Cooper Landing, Seward and Anchorage; the u.S. Forest Service in Seward;
and the U. S. Fish and wildlife Service in Kenai. Ludwig Pfleger of
Trail Lakes Flight Service provided us with excellent and safe air
service for which we are very grateful. We are also indebted to other
AEIDC personnel for their contributions to this report: Judy Brogan for
editing the final manuscript; Pam Barr for coordination of report
production; and~. Gabrielle Collier, Sherry Nelson and Bev Valdez for
their expert typing abilities.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Acknowledgements .•.............................................. i
Table of Contents ...•..........................•..••.•..••.•.... ii
List of Figures ...••.........•......•...••..•...•.........•..•.. iv
Introduction ...••..•.......•••..••....•••.••..•..•.•...........• 1
Report Contents .•..•....•....•..•..•...•..••.............•. 1
Proj ect Facilities .•..••...••.......•........••......••..•. 3
Scope Of AEIDC Services ...............•........•.....•...•• 6
Methods and Procedures ..............•.......•..•...•..•.•..•..•. 7
Aquatic Biota .•..........•.....•.......•.•.•••.....•..••... 7
Water Use and Quality ....•.•••.•....•.......•......... 7
Invertebrates .................•..•••..•..........••... 11
Fisheries Resources .........•.......•......••...•..... 11
Terrestrial Biota .•..•...........••...•........•..•.......• 12
Botanical Resources •..••...••..•....•...•...•...•.•..• 12
Wildlife Resources .......•.••.........•..............• 13
Water Use and Quality ........................................... 15
General Description of the Locale and Existing Water Uses .. 15
Alaska Water Quality Standards ...•...•.....•...•.......•... 19
Existing Water Quality Knowledge of the Project Area ....... 19
Results of the Field Program ............•.....•••.......... 36
Aquatic Biota ...............................•.•................. 43
Macrophytes ..•...................•......................... 43
Invertebrates .........•......•...........•................. 43
Existing Knowledge of the Project Area .......•...•.... 43
Resul ts of the Field Program ................•..•.....• 46
Fisheries Resources .................•...••...•............. 59
Introduction ..............•........................... 59
Fisheries Investigations ...................•...•....•. 74
Terrestrial Biota ....................•..••.........•............ 99
Botanical Resources ...........•...•.......•....•......•...• 99
Introduction .......................................... 99
Description of Mapping Units .......................... 100
Vegetation of Impact Sites ............................ 104
Successional Trends ................................... 107
Endangered Species ......•............................. 109
Wildlife Resources ......................................... 110
Introduction ......................................•... 110
Amphibia .....•...•.....•.............................. 110
Aves .........................•........................ 111
Mammals .•...•........•..........................•..... 137
ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS (cont.)
Significance of the Resources ..........•....••...........•••.... 190
Aquatic .............•..••••................................ 191
Terrestrial ..•••..................•.......•...••........... 194
Bibliography ••.•.......•••••......•••••...•••••...•.••......•••• 197
Personal Communications ....•....•............•..•........•••.... 211
Appendices
A -Archeological and historical resources report
B - A capture and removal methodology (Zippin 1959) and its
application to the Grant Lake project
C -Plant species identified from the Grant Lake study area
D -Vegetation map of the Grant Lake area
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FIGURE
NUMBER
1.
LIST OF FIGURES
Location of the Grant Lake hydroelectric project.
2. Grant Lake hydroelectric project facilities.
3 •
4.
5.
6.
7.
Grant Lake showing constriction between the
upper lower basins.
Aquatic biota sampling techniques and sampling
locations, Grant Lake, 1981-1982.
Study areas and aquatic biota sampling techniques,
Grant Creek, 1981-1982.
Study areas and aquatic biota sampling techniques,
Falls Creek, 1981-1982.
Mean monthly streamflow in cfs for Grant Creek,
1947-58.
8. Water quality criteria and applicable standards.
9 .
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
Index of surface water quality records for streams
in the poject area.
Location of water quality stations in the project
area.
Water quality analysis of streams in the project
area .
Water quality analysis (surface) of Ptarmigan and
Grant lakes, July 15, 1960.
Vertical temperature, dissolved oxygen, and solar
illuminance profiles, Grant Lake, lower basin,
June 10, 1981.
Vertical temperature, dissolved oxygen, and solar
illuminance profiles, Grant Lake, upper basin,
June 10, 1981.
15. Vertical temperature profile of Grant Lake, lower
basin .
iv
PAGE NO.
2
4
5
8
9
10
17
20
21
22
23
29
30
31
32
LIST OF FIGURES (cont.)
FIGURE
NUMBER PAGE NO.
16. vertical temperature profiles of Grant Lake, upper
basin.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
Dissolved oxygen measurements for Grant Lake.
water quality data for Grant Lake.
water quality data for Grant Lake, 50 m depth.
water quality data for Grant Creek.
water quality data for Falls Creek.
water quality data for Vagt Creek.
Identification and enumeration of zooplankton
for Grant Lake, June 1981.
Macroinvertebrates collected in June 1977 by WAPORA,
Inc., by site.
Invertebrates found in Vagt Lake and tributaries, June
1972, by the U.S. Forest Service.
Identification and enumeration of zooplankton from
Grant Lake.
Identification and enumeration of benthic organisms
from Grant Lake.
Identification and enumeration of benthic organisms
from Grant Creek.
29. Identification and enumeration of benthic organisms
from Vagt Creek.
30.
31.
32.
Identification and enumeration of benthic organisms
from Falls Creek.
Kenai River drainage.
Fish species reported to occur in the Kenai River
system, by specific location.
v
33
34
35
37
38
39
40
45
47
52
53
54
56
57
58
60
61
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FIGURE
NUMBER
33 .
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39 •
40 .
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
LIST OF FIGURES (cont.)
Sport and commercial harvest of chinook salmon bound
principally for the Kenai River, 1947-1981.
Sport harvest of salmon (excluding chinook) in the
Kenai River, 1976-1980.
Peak salmon escapement counts for Grant Creek,
1952-1982.
Fish species collected by minnow trap by USFWS in
Grant Creek, July 1959 through January 1961.
Creel census conducted at the mouth of Grant Creek
by ADF&G 1964.
Monthly and annual mean discharge (cfs) at the USGS
gage on Grant Creek.
Species taken by the USFWS using minnow traps in
Falls Creek, June through November 1959.
Generalized, Kenai River life history information for
Pacific salmon known or suspected to spawn in Grant
Creek.
Principal physical characteristics which may in-
fluence salmon spawning success in Grant Creek,
1982.
Location of king salmon and red salmon spawning
activities, Grant Creek, August 1982.
Grant Creek juvenile king salmon taken by minnow
trap and electroshocker, October 1981 through August
1982.
Length/frequency histogram of king salmon juveniles
taken by minnow traps, Grant Creek, 1981-1982.
Grant Creek juvenile coho salmon taken by minnow
trap and electroshocker, October 1981 through August
1982.
vi
PAGE NO.
62
63
66
68
69
70
72
76
79
80
81
82
86
FIGURE
NUMBER
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
52.
LIST OF FIGURES (cont.)
Length/frequency histogram of coho salmon juveniles
taken by minnow traps, Grant Creek, 1981-1982.
Grant Creek rainbow trout taken by minnow trap and
electroshocker, October 1981 through August 1982.
Length/frequency histogram of rainbow trout juvenile
taken by minnow traps, Grant Creek, 1981-1982.
Grant Creek Dolly Varden taken by minnow trap and
electroshocker, October 1981 through August 1982.
Length/frequency histogram of Dolly Varden juveniles
taken by minnow traps, Grant Creek, 1981-1982.
Falls Creek Dolly Varden taken by minnow trap,
October 1981 through August 1982.
Length/frequency histogram of Dolly Varden juveniles
taken by minnow traps, Falls Creek, 1981-1982.
53. Amount of cover types to be altered by project
structures.
54.
55.
56.
57.
58.
59.
60.
61.
Avifauna which probably inhabit or migrate through
the Grant Lake study area.
Comparison of avifauna habitat types to vegetation
associations.
Potential loon and grebe nesting habitat.
Time table of significant biological events for
loons and grebes--southcentral Alaska.
Potential nesting habitat for ducks.
Timetable of significant biological events for
ducks, geese, and swans--southcentral Alaska.
Potential nesting habitat for raptors.
Primary spruce grouse habitat.
vii
PAGE NO.
87
89
90
92
93
95
96
105
112
115
117
119
121
123
125
126
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FIGURE
NUMBER
LIST OF FIGURES (cont.)
62. Timetable of significant biological events for
spruce grouse--southcentral Alaska.
63. Summary of habitat preferences of ptarmigan in
central Alaska.
64.
65.
66.
67.
68.
69.
70.
71.
72.
73.
74.
75.
76.
77.
78.
79.
Ptarmigan habitat (all species).
Timetable of significant biological events for
ptarmigan--Alaska.
Mammals of the Study Area.
Snowshoe hare and lynx habitat.
Marmot distribution.
Beaver distribution, 1981-1982.
Beaver lodges.
Timetable of significant biological events for
beaver--Alaska.
Major forage resources for brown bears.
Primary denning habitat for brown bears.
Location and amount of potential brown bear denning
habitat within the Grant Lake study area.
Timetable of significant biological events for brown
bear--southcentral Alaska.
Timetable of significant biological events for black
bear--southcentral Alaska.
Distribution of wolverine.
Principal moose winter range.
Moose travel routes in spring.
viii
PAGE NO.
129
130
131
133
138
141
143
146
147
151
157
160
162
164
167
170
174
176
FIGURE
NUMBER
80.
81.
82.
83.
84.
85.
86.
LIST OF FIGURES (cont.)
Principal moose summer range.
Timetable of significant biological events for
moose--southcentral Alaska.
Observations of mountain goats, April 16 and 30,
1982.
Observations of mountain goat, May 21, 1982.
Observations of mountain goat, June 8 and 9, 1982.
Observations of Dall's sheep, May 21, 1982.
Observations of Dall's sheep, June 8 and 9, 1982.
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179
181
182
183
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188
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INTRODUCTION
REPORT CONTENTS
This report presents environmental information on the proposed
Grant Lake hydroelectric project area (Figure 1). The University of
Alaska's Arctic Environmental Information and Data Center (AEIDC)
conducted studies of this region under contract to Ebasco Services,
Inc. Our staff gathered available published and unpublished en-
vironmental and archeological/historical knowledge and supplemented
this base of information with specific field investigations in the
project area during the period October 1981 through September 1982.
Also, knowledgeable state and federal agency representatives and local
residents were interviewed to obtain additional information on the
natural resources of the area, particularly the human use of re-
sources.
Because environmental information on the Grant Lake project area
was unavailable in certain categories, we focused field study efforts
to fill gaps in knowledge of fish and wildlife species, archeological
and historical resources, and terrestrial and aquatic habitat fea-
tures. This information will ultimately be required for various
construction permits and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission licens-
ing. Field studies were limited to four-or five-day seasonal sam-
pling trips by a multidisciplinary field party in October 1981, March
1982, May 1982, and July/August 1982. Several one-day trips to the
project site provided additional fishery and wildlife information.
This report summarizes the data gathered from these brief field
surveys. (The results of archeological/historic investigations
conducted during June 1982 are included as Appendix A.) Because
engineering measurements predominantly appear in English units and
other sciences tend to use metric measurements, we were faced with a
conv8rsion conflict between consistency and accuracy. Stylistic
considerations turned out to be far less compelling than arguments for
reporting measurements exactly as they were made by original authors
and researchers.
Figure 1. Location of the Grant Lake hydroelectric project.
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ANOIORAGE
HIGHWAY
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PROJECT FACILITIES
The Grant Lake hydroelectric project site (Figure 2) is approxi-
mately 20 miles north of Seward, Alaska. During the 1981 phase of
our study, the proposed configuration of this project was to have
involved construction of a dam at the outlet of Grant Lake (Grant
Creek) and a small dam across a saddle on the western shore of the
lower basin of Grant Lake. The lake water surface elevation was to
rise and fall annually, and lake shoreline and Inlet Creek floodplain
acreage were going to be seasonally inundated. Continuous streamflow
in Grant Creek was essentially to have ceased. Streamflow from
adjacent Falls Creek was to be diverted to the Grant Lake reservoir by
surface conduit, and continuous flow below the diversion (1,000 ft
-"
elevation) also was to cease. The first segment of our field inves-
tigations, focused on the dam, shoreline inundation, streamflow
reduction, and other site-specific impacts related to the original
projected configuration.
After the initial engineering and geologic data were evaluated in
more detail, Ebasco revised the configuration of the overall project
facilities and recommended an alternative scheme in early 1982 (Ebasco
Services, Inc. 1982). We immediately shifted the emphasis of the re-
mainder of the field investigations to assess the new project fea-
tures. As now conceived, the project would tap Grant Lake water via a
low-level power tunnel' and short length of steel penstock to supply a
6-megawatt powerhouse on Upper Trail Lake. A 180-foot tailrace would
be excavated from the powerhouse to Upper Trail Lake. No dams on
Grant Lake would be required, and lake level would fluctuate from
present level (elevation 690 ft) down to elevation 660 feet. Stream-
flows in Grant Creek would essentially cease except during brief
periods of spill. Falls Creek also would be diverted, and streamflow
in the lower basin would cease. The natural constriction at the
narrows between the upper and lower basins of Grant Lake (Figure 3)
would be blasted and dredged to a width of approximately 25 feet and
to a lake bottom elevation of approximately 655 feet.
In addition to these development features, about 2.7 miles of
road access from nearby Seward Highway would be constructed to the
3
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UPPER TRAIL LAKE
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Figure 2.
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Grant Lake hydroelectric project facilities.
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Figure 3. Grant Lake showing constriction between
the upper and lower basins.
Scale 124000 or 1 inch c_= 20[,0 k<'1
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powerhouse site on Upper Trail Lake and to the intake works on the
lower basin of Grant Lake. Road access would not cross Vagt Creek but
instead would include a 350-foot bridge across the narrows between
Upper and Lower Trail lakes.
from the powerhouse to the
point.
A 69-kv transmission line would extend
Ci ty of Seward's Falls Creek metering
SCOPE OF AEIDC SERVICES
Our contractual mandate was to gather relevant data through
literature review, interview, and limited field study and to produce a
summary report that inventories available knowledge and presents data
gathered from field investigations in the following categories--water
use and quality; aquatic biota; terrestrial biota; vegetation; and
archeological and historical resources. Accordingly this report
provides a summary of environmental knowledge of the proposed project
area based principally on information
interviews. Field investigations were
collection of seasonal baseline data.
from literature sources
brief and confined to
and
the
The proposed Grant Lake hydroelectric project would permanently
alter the environmental features of this region with construction of
roads, transmission lines, tunnel, powerhouse, penstock, tailrace, and
pipelines; by altered streamflows and water quality; and by distur-
bance of wildlife. Minimizing and mitigating predictable adverse
environmental effects would be required. No environmental assessment
of potential impacts of the project was made by AEIDC as that respon-
sibili ty belongs solely to Ebasco. In addition, all graphics pre-
sented herein are in draft form. Final illustrations are to be
drafted by Ebasco.
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METHODS AND PROCEDURES
AQUATIC BIOTA
WATER USE AND QUALITY
Limnological and fisheries resource inventories have been com-
piled for several lakes and streams in southcentral Alaska, princi-
pally by the Alaska Department of Fish & Game (ADF&G), the U. S.
Geological Survey (USGS), and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS). To
augment the information available for the project area, we established
a water quality monitoring program for Grant Lake, Grant Creek, Vagt
Creek, and Falls Creek. Water quality samples were taken from one of
the deepest sections of Grant Lake's upper and lower basins. A
sampling station was established in each lake basin on our first field
trip and permanent shoreline landmarks were used to facilitate
returning to these stations on all subsequent field trips. Vertical
measurements were made for temperature, dissolved oxygen, and water
clarity (Secchi). Composite water samples were collected from Grant
Lake (each basin), Grant Creek, Falls Creek, and Vagt Creek for
conductivity, selected ions, nitrate, orthophosphate, alkalinity,
hardness, total dissolved solids, suspended solids, turbidity, pH, and
coliform bacteria. Turbidity and suspended solids were also measured
oilt 50 m depth in both Grant Lake basins in June and August 1982.
Phytoplankton samples were taken and shipped to Ebasco for analysis.
During winter, openings in the ice were made with a hand operated ice
auger to facilitate use of plankton nets, water sampling bottles, and
water quality instrument probes. Figures 4, 5, and 6 show the
location of sampling stations.
Water quality measurements were obtained with a YSI Model 33
salinity/conductivity/temperature meter, pocket thermometer (-35° to
50°C), YSI Model SIB oxygen meter, portable field pH meter, and 20-cm
Secchi disc. A 1.2-liter Kemmerer sampling bottle was used for
collecting water samples. Composite samples were placed in a poly-
ethylene carboy, and I-liter samples were drawn in polyethylene con-
tainers, stored in an iced cooler', and returned wi thin 24 hours to
Anchorage for analysis. Chemical and Geological Laboratories of
7
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Figure 4. Aquatic biota sampling techniques and sampling locations, Grant Lake, 1981-1982 .
Station
1
2
3
3
3
4
Gear types:
Parameter
fish
Fish
Zooplankton
Phytoplankton
Water quality
Benthos
Gear
A
B
C
o
E
F
A. Variable mesh experimental gill net
Technique
Floating and sinking, overnight set
Overnight haited set
Integrated vertical 1I m/sec rate of tow) bottom
to surface tow
Composite
Composite and vertical profile
Grab sample
B. Minnow trap; anchored in littoral areas, floated under a buoy in pelagic areas
C. 153 Jl mesh Nitex 30 cm. plankton net with 153)J mesh bucket
D. 1 liter aliquots placed in 12 liter container, composite sample withdrawn for analysis by Ebasco
Replicates
series/season except wintci
series/season except winter
2X composite/sca~oll
1 series/season
1 series/season
2X composite/season
E. YSI Model 33 salinity/conductivity/temperature meter, pocket thermometer (-35° to 50°C), and 20 cm Secchi disc.
and 1.2 liter Kemmerer sampling bottle
F. 16 cm. x 16 cm. Ekman dredge, samples washed through 500)l mesh seive
G. 12-inch Surber sampler, samples washed through 500J.l mesh seive
H. Backpack Electroshocker, angling, visual observation (combination of techniques)
• Cabin or associated building
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Figure 5. Study areas and aquatic biota sampling techniques, Orant Creek, 1981-1982.
Parameter Oear Technique Study Area Replicates
Periphytes A Hand collection 1 1 series/season
Bcnthos B Surber sample 1 1 series/season
Phytoplankton C Composite (3 sites) 1-3 1 series
Water quality D Composite (3 sites) 1-3 1 series/season
Fish E In situ sampling 1-4 1 series/season
Fish F Overnight baited set 1-4 1 series/season
Fish 0 Block & removal 1 1 series
Ocar types:
A. Scrub brush -12-inch Surber sampler
B. 12-inch Surber sampler, samples washed through 500}.l mesh seive
C. 1 liter aliquots placed in 12 liter container, composite sample withdrawn for analysis by Ebasco
D. YSI Model 33 salinity/conductivity/temperature meter, pocket thermometer (-35° to 50°C). Samples collected for analysis
by Chem-Oeo Labs Inc. and cbasco
E. Backpack Electroshocker, angling, visual observation (combination of techniques)
F. Minnow trap
O. Block study area with net, capture and remove fish with electroshocker
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Seward Highway
Trail River
Study Area I ---l-~
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Figure 6. Study areas and aquatic biota sampling techniques. Falls Creek. 1981-1982.
Parameter Gear Technique Study Area Replicates
Benthos A Surber sample 1-2 1 series/season
Phytoplankton B Composite (3 sites) 1-2 1 series/
Water quality C Composite (3 sites) 1-2 1 series/season
Fish D In situ sampling 1-4 1 series/season
Fish E Overnight baited set 1-4 and 1 series/season
above lower
mine areas *
Gear types:
A. 12-inch Surber sampler, samples washed through 500)l mesh seive
B. 1 liter aliquots placed in 12 liter container, composite sample withdrawn for analysis by Ebasco
C. YSI Model 33 salinity/conductivity/temperature meter, pocket thermometer (-35° to 50°C). Samples collected for analysis
by Chem-Geo Labs Inc. and Ebasco
D .
E.
•
Angling, visual observation (combination of techniques)
Minnow trap
Minnow trapping was conducted above and within the Lower Mine area during the Fall of 1982
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Alaska, Inc. provided sterile containers for collecting coliform
samples. The same firm analyzed the water samples for total dissolved
solids, suspended solids, select ions, and chemical nutrients. Amtest
Laboratories, Seattle, Washington, supplied special containers and
tested additional water samples for heavy metals content.
INVERTEBRATES
Prior to this study, very little background information existed
on the aquatic invertebrates in project area waters. We gathered
site-specific seasonal data concerning macroinvertebrate and zooplank-
ton distribution and relative abundance.
Zooplankton were collected in each lake basin by making duplicate
vertical tows from a 50-m depth to the surface using a No. 10 Nitex
net 30 ern in diameter and 1 m long. Straining cloth for the No. 10
Nitex net had an aperture of 153 microns and 45 percent open area. We
preserved plankton in 70 percent alcohol and, in our Anchorage labora-
tory, identified and counted them on a Sedgewick Rafter counting cell.
We used a 6-in (152 ern) Ekman dredge to collect lake bottom fauna and
a 12-in (30 cm) Surber sampler to collect stream benthos. Lake and
stream bottom samples were washed in a screen bucket having 30 meshes
per inch. Organisms were preserved in 70 percent alcohol, identified
to the lowest possible taxon, and enumerated according to area 0.L'
volume of habitat originally sampled. Figures 4, 5, and 6 show
sampling schedules and site locations.
FISHERIES RESOURCES
The fisheries studies we conducted in the project area sought to
identify the seasonal presence of resident and anadromous fish
.species, their relative abundance, and their habitat use characteris-
tics. In order to accomplish these objectives AEIDC biologists con-
ducted week-long field investigations in October, 1981, and in March,
May, June, and August of 1982. We used the following methods to
investigate habitats in Grant Lake: a 125-foot variable mesh gill
net, with five 2S-foot panels ranging in size from 0.5 inch to
2.5 inch bar measurements, set floating and sinking overnight; minnow
traps (baited with salmon roe) set overnight, anchored in littoral
11
areas and floated under a buoy in pelagic areas; and visual observa-
tion. Figure 4 summarizes sampling locations, parameters, and methods
in Grant Lake and Figures 5 and 6 provide this information for Grant
and Falls Creek. We divided Grant Creek and Falls Creek into discrete
study areas to facilitate the analysis of fish distribution and
habitat characteristics. We used the following methods to investigate
these rearing and spawning habitats: minnow traps baited with salmon
roe set overnight; a backpack electroshocker; angling; visual observa-
tion. A block and removal methodology (Zippin 1958) was used to
attempt a quantitative assessment of the fish populations in Grant
Creek (see results in Appendix B). This methodology was not used in
Falls Creek due to high water conditions and the low numbers of fish
-
observed using other methods.
TERRESTRIAL BIOTA
BOTANICAL RESOURCES
Phytoplankton and periphyton samples were taken during each field
trip, preserved, and shipped to Ebasco for analysis. We collected
phytoplankton in Grant Lake in a 1.2-liter Kemmerer bottle at several
surface locations in each basin and one near bottom (50 m) in each
basin. Each sample was then added to a 12-li ter carboy and two
I-liter a1iquots were withdrawn from this composite sample. Surface
samples from Grant Creek, Falls Creek, and Vagt Creek were preserved
in 70 percent alcohol, concentrated to approximately 100 ml, and
retained for analysis by Ebasco staff. Periphyton samples from Grant
Creek, Falls Creek, and Vagt Creek were obtained by scrubbing stream
bottom surfaces (logs, cobbles, etc.) and then preserving them in
7D percent alcohol for analysis by Ebasco.
We prepared the vegetation association map by using 1978 NASA
high-al ti tude, color-enhanced, infrared photography, corrected to a
scale of 1: 24 , 000 with the aid of photomechanical enlargement. We
delineated vegetation associations with standard manual air-photo
interpretation techniques. Mapping units are generally combinations
of plant community types which could be delineated from aerial photos.
12
-
I. ..
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...
...
Ir.<
-
--..
..
...
•
•
...
..
--
-
-..
-..
-..
-..
, ... ..
-
--..
-
The descriptions of the mapping units reflect the variations within
each type.
During July 1982 we field checked the preliminary vegetation map
prepared in 1981. We visited representative areas of each delineated
type as well as questionable areas, previously disturbed areas, and
sites to be directly impacted by project development. We did not seek
quantitative data on plant distribution, composition, or abundance but
instead made qualitative assessment of the relative abundance of
dominant plants in areas to be directly affected by the proposed
project. Areas slated for modification by proj ect structures were
measured and compared to the total available acres of each vegetation
type. The vegetation was described in terms of dominant over-and
understory plants. Botanical names follow Hul ten (1968), and are
presented in Appendix C.
WILDLIFE RESOURCES
Prior to the initiation of the field study program, we reviewed
the literature and 'interviewed knowledgeable residents and agency
personnel to identify likely components of the project area's fauna.
Once this was accomplished, we compiled life histories for each of the
major species and species groups thought to reside in the study area .
The purpose of this review was twofold: (1) to identify the chief
natural limiting factors governing population size of each species and
species group in Alaska and (2) to identify those aspects of indivi-
dual life histories which relate to the timing of key biological
events (e.g., den site selection, the rut, parturition, etc.) which
may be subject to the influences of human activity.
Beginning in the fall of 1981 and extending through the SUIT~er of
1982, we conducted a series of reconnaissance-level field surveys,
both foot and aerial, to ascertain the presence, distribution, re-
lative abundance, and use patterns of various species and species
groups wi thin the proj ect area and to identify the distribution and
relative value of important seasonally-limited habitats and their
relationship to project works. Replicate once-per-season foot surveys
were conducted on all sites likely to be disturbed or modified as a
result of proj ect construction (access road corridors, the pmolerhouse
13
site, penstock, etc.). Foot surveys were also conducted through
adjacent areas to compare habitats at project sites to other habitats
in the study area and to migration routes.
Data recorded during foot surveys included the sightings of
individual animals and/or sign indicative of their presence (tracks,
scat, browse lines, etc.), the type of vegetation community the
sighting occurred in, and an appraisal of the habitat quality for each
species at each observation site. Habitat quality was subjectively
evaluated in the field on the basis of an interpretation of the amount
and quality of forage items available at each site along with indi-
cations of past use of the available food resource. Replicate sys-
tematic aerial surveys were conducted seasonally to augment informa-
tion gleaned from the ground on the seasonal distribution and relative
abundance of each of the species and species groups targeted for the
study. Data recorded included species type, numbers, sex and age
composition, location, time of day, an estimate of viewing conditions,
and sign (tracks in snow, excavations by bears, etc.) indicative of an
animal's presence.
Our staff synthesized the results of the literature and field
surveys into a description of use of the project area by various
species. We then drew correlations between vegetation communities and
the observed use by animals, providing an index of habitat use by
species by season. Next we identified those natural factors deemed
capable of limiting given populations in the study area.
appraisal of habitat quality was also made.
14
A subjective
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~vATER USE AND QUALITY
GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE LOCALE AND EXISTING WATER USES
The eastern Kenai Peninsula is in a maritime climatic region,
which in Alaska means cool summers, mild winters, high precipitation,
and frequent storms with high winds. Precipitation is least in the
spring and greatest during the late summer and early autumn. Annual
rainfall exceeds 40 inches in the eastern mountainous parts of the
study area.
Grant Lake is located in the Chugach Mountains of the Kenai
Peninsula approximately 27 miles northeast of Seward at an elevation
of 700 ft. Its drainage area is 43.5 square miles. An island and
narrows at a right angle separate the lake into two basins with a
total surface area of 2.5 square miles. The lower basin is 1.5 miles
long and 0.5 miles wide and is flanked by steep mountains on the east
and a low divide to the west. The upper basin is 3.5 miles long and
0.5 miles wide and is confined between steep slopes with a flat-bot-
tomed valley containing a major unnamed tributary, herein called Inlet
Creek, at its upper end. Several other small glacial streams feed
into Grant Lake, causing seasonally moderate to heavy turbidity of the
lake waters .
Access to the project area is by the Anchorage-Seward highway and
the Alaska Railroad, both of which lie parallel to Trail Lake,
crossing the lower sections of Falls and Ptarmigan creeks and running
within 0.25 mile of the mouth of Grant Creek. The few residents of
the project area primarily live along the highway. Commercial de-
velopment within the project area has been limited to a hunter's cabin
on upper Grant Lake, a recreation cabin at the mouth of Grant Creek,
Qnd a few mines, now largely inactive. One cabin and appurtenant mine
operation buildings are located on the north side of lower Grant Lake.
Currently, Grant Lake serves as a staging area for sportsmen
hunting in the valley above upper Grant Lake basin and in the moun-
tainous area surrounding the lake. Floatplanes utilize both basins,
and several areas (including a permanent cabin on the shore of upper
Grant Lake) are used as seasonal camps. Hikers and snowmobilers also
gain access to Grant Lake from the Trail lakes via a well-used trail.
15
Several canoes are stored at the trailhead on Grant Lake near the
remains of several camping sites. The mine on the lower basin of
Grant Lake is accessed by a Cat trail extending from the east shore of
Upper Trail Lake to the miner's cabin area. According to Moose Pass
residents, a lone individual spends the spring through fall seasons
tending a hard rock gold mine in the mountain flank above Grant Lake.
Presumed limited domestic use is made of the lake by this individual
for wash water and for recreation.
USGS gaged Grant Creek for 11 years, from 1947 to 1959, at a
location 0.3 miles upstream from its mouth. This is the primary
source of hydrologic data for the Grant Lake basin. The mean annual
flow during this period was 198 cfs. Minimum discharge occurred
during March and peak discharge during July. Figure 7 summarizes flow
data.
Originating from Grant Lake, Grant Creek flows approximately
1.1 miles southwesterly, emptying into the Trail River between Upper
and Lower Trail lakes. Very fine glacial flour (a colloidal sus-
pension of very fine
throughout its course.
per mile.
inorganic particles) remains in suspension
Grant Creek has a stream gradient of 207 ft
Streamflow in the watershed of the
glacial origin. F low in these streams
greater precipitation in the mountains.
study area is mostly of
is high and reflects the
Glacial streams typically
display a period of high flow during the summer months and a period of
low flow during the winter months.
The quality of surface water in the Kenai River watershed is gen-
erally good. Artesian water may contain objectionable quantities of
iron or chloride near the coast. water in glacial streams contains
low concentrations of dissolved solids but contains glacial flour and
is, therefore, turbid most of the year.
Measured surface water temperature in the Kenai River has been
reported to range from near 0 to 17°C. Total ice cover for the Kenai
River does not generally occur until mid-November, and ice breakup can
occur as early as February. In some years the Kenai River does not
freeze over. Large lakes, like Grant, Upper Russian, and Hidden,
generally freeze in November and thaw in late April or early May.
16
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....
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.'
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lit'
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-.... ..
-
.. ---.. ...
-
!II
-
-
.... .. -.. -
• -.. -• -
-
--
"'"
!II
-
Month
October
November
December
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
Figure 7. Mean monthly streamflow in cfs
for Grant Creek, 1947-58.
Minimum Maximum
91 381
64 251
35 121
28 38
22 27
18 22
20 57
58 277
260 786
388 736
270 663
169 551
Source: u.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1961 .
17
Mean
184
189
56
31
23
20
31
152
448
518
413
307
The primary access to Grant Creek is by boat across Lower Trail
Lake, and the creek receives moderate recreational use, principally
fishing, near the confluence with the Trail Lakes system. Moose Pass
and other area residents hike the lower 0.5 to 0.75 mile of Grant
Creek to fish for Dolly Varden, rainbow trout, or Arctic grayling
throughout the spring and summer months. The creek is closed to all
salmon fishing (by ADF&G regulation). This trail is well used and
parallels the south side of Grant Creek from the mouth to the canyon.
Presumably the owner of a cabin near the mouth of the creek obtains
water from Grant Creek for various domestic uses during all times of
the year.
Vagt Creek drains Vagt Lake, which is a natural lake on a bench
above Lower Trail Lake at an elevation of about 575 ft. Vagt Creek is
about 1,500 ft in length, 9 ft wide, and has an overall gradient of
about 6 percent. Access to Vagt Creek and Vagt Lake is by a trail
around the shore of Trail Lake originating from near the highway
bridge over Trail River. ADF&G rehabilitated Vagt Lake in 1974 to
remove undesirable fish and now manage it as a public recreation
fishery, occasionally restocking it with rainbow trout. Hikers
frequently travel this trail during summer to access Vagt Lake for
various recreational purposes. Evidence of campsites is abundant
around the lake perimeter. Another trail parallels Vagt Creek to
Lower Trail Lake and appears well used. Sport fishing is poor in Vagt
Creek due to its small size and the placement of rock filled gabions
at the Vagt Lake outlet, emplaced primarily to prohibit outmigration
of stocked rainbow trout.
Fa-lIs Creek drains the precipitous area between the Grant Lake
and the Ptarmigan Lake watersheds. It is 8 miles in length and has a
drainage of 11. 9 square miles at its mouth. There are no lakes or
major tributaries in the drainage. The water originates mostly from
snowmel t and is clear except for periods of turbidity during high
water. Mining activities and access roads can be found throughout the
valley. An inoperative gold mine is located 3 miles upstream, and an
active gold claim exists on the lower stream reach just above the
highway. This placer mine operation has extensively channelized lower
Falls Creek. In addition to this mining activity, numerous private
18
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residences are present near Falls Creek, but actual use of Falls Creek
area is generally limited to snowmobile and horseback riding. Moder-
ately turbid water from runoff and from two placer mines probably
precludes consumptive use of creek waters.
ALASKA WATER QUALITY STANDARDS
State water quality standards, which provide for the protection
of identified uses of Alaska's waters, are under the auspices of the
Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation through Alaska
Statutes Title 46, Chapter 3. All water bodies in the project area
are classified by the State of Alaska as Class C, "\'7ater used for
growth and propagation of fish, shellfish, other aquatic life, and
wildlife including waterfowl and furbearers."
Water quality criteria, when used in combination with the water
use designation, constitute the water quality standard for a par-
ticular water body. Water quality standards regulate man-made
alterations to the waters of the state. Figure 8 presents water
quality criteria applicable to each protected water .
EXISTING \"IATER QUALITY KNOWLEDGE OF THE PROJECT AREA
Limnological and fisheries resource inventories have been com-
piled for several lakes and streams in southcentral Alaska, princi-
pally by USGS, USFS, U.S. Fish and wildlife Service (USFWS), and ADF&G
(ADF&G 1981; Blanchet 1981; Howse 1972; Still 1976, 1980; USFWS 1961;
USGS 1981). The object of these investigations was to gather back-
ground data and to determine the relationship of physical, chemical,
and biological characteristics to water quality and fish habitat and
production. USGS has collected and analyzed water quality samples
.from surface waters of Alaska since 1949. Figure 9 lists sites and
the type of water quality data collected near the proposed Grant Lake
hydroelectric project. Figure 10 shows the location of these sites.
Most of the streams in southcentral Alaska are similar chemically .
Small differences may reflect variations in geology of the drainage
basins and morphometry of the streams. Figure 11 provides a summary
of the physical-chemical characteristics of these waters collected by
USGS in previous years .
19
Paramt!ter
;litrate
Phosphate (artha)
Total hardness (as CaC0 3 )
Alkalinity (as CaC0 3 )
Total dissolved solids
Su.pended solids
pH
Water clarity (Secchi)
Turbidity
Conductivity
Co lifo rms
Silver
Aluminum
Arsenic
Gold
Boron
Barium
Bismuth
Calcium
Cadmium
Cobalt
Chromium
Copper
Iron
Mercury
Potassium
Magnesium
Manganese
Molybdenum
Sodium
Nickel
Phosphorus
Lead
Platinum
Antimony
Selenium
Silicon
Tin
Strontium
Titanium
Tung'it~n
Vanadium
Zinc
Zirconium
Figure 8. :~Tater quality crito..!rl.J. JIIJ .lpplic.:iule stdnliards.
EPA Criteria 1
Restrictive criteria/not recommended
No recommendation
Equal to alkalinity
20 mg/l or more except where natural
conditions are less
No recommendation
Should not reduce the depth of the
compensation paint for photosynthe-
tic activity by more than 10% from
the seasonally established norm.
6.5-9.0
No recommendation
Depth of light penetration should
not be reduced by more than 10%
No recommendation
No recommendation
1.2 ug/l
No recommendation
440 ug/l
No recommendation
No recommendation
No recommendation
No recommendation
No recommendation
1.5ug/1
No recommendation
2,200 ug/l
12 ug/l
1 mg/l
3.7 ug/l
No recommendation
No recommendation
No recommendation
No recommendation
No recommendation
1,100 ug/l
No recommendation
74 ug/ I
No recommendation
Acute toxiclty at 9,000 ug/l
200 u~/l
No recommendation
No recommendation
No recommendatlon
No recommendation
No recommt!ndation
No recommendatiun
180 u~/ 1
~o r~commendation
Alaska Standard-
~o standard
No standard
No standard
No standard
Not to exceed 1,500 mg/l. Increases in TDS
not to exceed one-third of the concentration
of the natural condition of the body of water.
No standard
6.5-9.0. Not to vary more than 0.5 pH units
from natural conditions.
No standard
Not to exceed 25 NTU above natural level for
stream, 5 NTU for lakes.
No standard
No standard
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
~ot to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to pxceed crit~ria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA, 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA. 1976
Not to exceed criteria in EPA. 1976
1. Freshwater aquatic Llfe criteria as given by l'.S. Environmental Protection A~ency in Qualitv Criteria for Water, lq76
anJ In the Fed~raL Register, Vol. ~). ~o. 231.
2. Water qUdlity par3.m~ters for aqudtic life as given in Water Qualitv Standards, Alaska Department of Environmental
Conserv~tion, 1979.
20
I.
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I I I I I I I II
Figure 9.
}lap Stat ion Station
No. No. Name
171 602130149204800 Victor Creek
near Lawing .
172 15244000 Ptarmigan Creek
at Lawing
173 603007149261500 Carter Creek near
Hoose Pass
174 15246000 Grant Creek near
~loose Pass
175 15248000 Trail River
near Lawing
176 15250000 Falls Creek
near Lawing
Ifrequency: I=Intermittent; D=Daily
Source: Still 1976, 1980.
I I I I • I I I I I I • • • • I I • •
Index of surface water quality records for streams in the project area.
Data Available
Chemical TemEerature Sediment Streamflow
Period Period Period Continuous Partial
Location of 1 of 1 of 1 Record Record
Latitude Longitude Record Freguenc:i Record Freg,uenc:i Record Freguenc:i
60°21' 30" 149°20'48" 1956 I
60°24' 20" 149°21'45" 1950-53 I 1947-58
1955-58 I
60°30'07" 149°26'15" 1956 I
60°27'25" 149°21' IS" 1950-51 I 1947-58
1953
1955-58 I
60°26'01" 149°22' 19" 1949-53 I 1959-67 D 1967-74 I 1947-74 1975-77
1955-58 I
1959-67 D
1968-69 I
60°25'50" 149°22'10" 1956 I 1913 1963-70
1976
-, t
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~At ____ 0 _____ 0 ..
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'-
~) I \
~--..:.---~---~~-~ .. -. -----.--... " d r',-,
u. /1,
. 0 A, L ,', F \)
, lJ 1 II l2 1 "
"'-'i, I ! -/.' .rs-=t I
,_ _______ ~. I.~ :'-1 ~~.
------~-------.--.-"~.!\:. --ii--
.__ "oJ
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i Q" ( ,
I
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, ' I ' . \S'
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• J 0,>-
10. Location of water quality _
stations in the project arE -Explanation
Chemical--____ rn -Temperatljjie
Biological EGI-----Sediment_
Water quality data collection site
Black areas show type of data
Number indicates map number -
f
N
W
I I
St :It inn N;]rll'
Trail River
nt'ar Lawing
I I I I I I
Figure 11.
Date/7irne
10/14/49
>, ... .... ~
:> p ..... u ..........
u CIl
" 0 "".c c: g
o ;;l.. u....."
,..... .... o u
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:;J~
1545 3.5 6.8 70 24
07/10/50
N/T 10.5 7.4 73 27
10/04/50
N/T 7.0 7.6 68 25
01/30/51
N/T 7.1 92 1 33
11/12/51
1400 7.5 76 30
02/27/52
2200 0.0 6.8 101
04/22/52
1400 2.0 7.3 104
OS/20/52
1900 4.0 7.0 92
06/19/52
2300 9.0 7.4 80
02/2 1,/52
1455 12.0 6.4 70
08/21/52
1800 10.5 6.4 62
09/30/52
2000 8.0 7.1 65
01/30/53
1900 0.0 7.0 94
0'./15/53
1530 0.5 7.2 109
08/0~/53
1730 10.5 6.1 58
09/08/55
N/T 6.9 69
04/03/56
N/T 7.6 94
05/30/56
1230 7.3 86
07/03/56
N/T
10/03/57
N/T
It/06/57
0950
12/11/57
1I00
01/22/58
1030
02/19/58
1115
OS/21/58
0945
6.8 86
5.5 7.2 75
4.5 7.0 83
0.5 6.8 99
0.0 7.4 99
6.7 105
7.0 6.7 88
36
36
33
31
25
24
22
34
35
21
25
34
30
29
25
26
36
35
34
30
I I • I j I • I • I I i
~a.:z~ c;"a:i.ity C:"Qlysis of s::;:eams in the p::oject area.
30
33
28
42
34
51
41
44
34
34
2B
2B
44
45
25
29
42
37
36
32
36
44
44
48
40
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0.16
0.23
0.18
0.54
o .1B
0.32
0.25
0.27
0.36
0.32
0.16
0.16
0.36
0.25
0.25
0.20
O.IB
0.29
0.36
0.23
0.25
0.32
0.32
0.27
0.34
,.....
M o
Z
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0 ..... .., .......
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0.7
1.0
0.8
2.4
O.B
1.4
1.1
1.2
1.6
1.4
0.7
0.7
1.6
1.1
1.1
0.9
0.8
1.3
1.6
1.0
1.1
1.4
1.4
1.2
1.5
,.....
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0.8
1.2
0.5
1.2
2.2
1.5
2.0
1.5
2.2
0.8
0.5
0.0
1.0
4.0
0.5
0.5
1.2
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0.5
1.0
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3.9
4.7
5.1
4.3
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4.8
4.0
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17
3.3
5.6
5.1
3.3
4.5
4.5
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7.4 7.9
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11 15
3.5 13
6.4 12
2.4 11
19 14
18 7.6
3.4 7.7
6.7 11
4.3 9.7
32 7.5
6.0 B.O
1.7 10
2.9 7.5
B.9 9.0
3.0 10
5.1 10
11 9.0
2.7 9.0
13 12
11 10
;;-
<1l Ul
"" '" '''; .., .....
0 .......
" otJ ..... e
~....."
0.1
0.0
0.1
0.1
0.1
0.1
0.0
0.1
0.0
0.2
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.1
0.0
0.0
0.1
0.0
0.0
0.1
I
,.....
'" u
CIl
e '" " .", ..... u .......
..... OIl
'" g u....."
11
8.9
14
12
IB
14
15
12
11
11
10
15
16
8.9
10
15
13
13
11
13
15
15
15
15
I
1.3
1.5
1.8
1.1
1.4
1.4
1.5
1.1
1.7
0.5
0.8
1.3
1.0
0.7
0.9
1.2
1.2
0.8
1.2
0.8
1.5
1.5
2.4
0.8
,.....
~
CIl m ~ ..... .... .......
""blJ o e til ....."
1.2
0.7
1.0
1.4
3.3
0.9
0.9
1.6
1.2
2.1
0.6
1.1
1.7
1.4
1.4
1.0
i II
O.B
O.B
0.7
O.B
1.1
0.6
0.6
1.3
0.7
0.4
0.8
1.0
0.8
0.7
0.6
0.6
150
150
140
120
110
100
190
70
290
190
150
BO
20
260
o
o
o
o
o
170
130
o
o
IBO
CIl
." . ..; ..... o
OIl
."
OJ
:> ..... ,.....
0 ....
CIl .......
CIl OIl ..... e
Q'-'
45
5B
56
51
67
64
58
57
50
53
38
58
63
36
41
47
52
44
47
57
5f>
62
5~
:> o ....
'" e '" ,..... OJ (J; .., ......
... u '" ....."
31B
2,IBO
655
63
150
7J
62
160
1,400
2,810
1,200
1,0RO
140
109
2,550
1,0flO
320
657
1,920
M7
1,030
265
2Ul
10]
663
I I I 1
Stat ion I',1P'"
Trail River
near Lawing
I I
Date/Time
7/16/58
1000
8/20/58
1754
12/03/58
N/T
1/24/59
1000
4/07/59
N/T
7/11/59
N/T
9/20/59
1015
10/29/59
1300
1/11/60
:~/T
4/06/60
1530
5/10/60
1500
7/08/60
1630
10/11/60
N/T
1/11/61
N/T
4/28/61
1530
5/30/61
1400
7/11/61
:;/T
10/11/61
N/T
1/21/62
N/T
4/11/62
N/T
7/11/62
N/T
10/11/62
N/T
1/11/63
fl/T
4/11/63
N/T
7/11/63
N/T
,.
....
;:l w
.J
QJ
Co ""' S u
ClJO
f-<~ .
10.5
9.5
0.0
10.0
4.0
0.5
5.9
6.8
6.6
6.2
7.3
7.3
7.4
7.0
7.4
7.4
Figure 11
:>, ... ..... ""' :> S ..... u ... ---u "' ;:l a 'O..c:
" s 82>.
75
73
91
97
105
73
71
77
93
102
4.5 7.3 87
9.0 7.4 77
7.3 76
7.3 97
5.0 7.4 96
6.5 7.7 87
7.5 72
7.2 77
7.5 98
7.5 102
7.3 70
7.4 71
7.9 100
7.6 99
7.6 73
I I • I , , I
(Continued), Water quality analysis of streams in the project area.
""' '" o
U
<0
:>,U ... ..... "' r:: <0 .....
HH
<0---~ Of)
.-i S
..:~
22
25
31
30
35
25
27
27
34
37
31
28
27
34
36
31
25
28
38
38
25
24
35
34
26
""' '" o
U
<0
U
"' Ul Ul <0
ClJ r:: ......
'0 ---.... 00
<0 13 :I:~
34
31
42
42
46
36
36
38
42
48
41
40
36
46
48
41
33
36
48
47
34
32
47
44
32
II I
Z
r:: Ul
ClJ <0
00
0 ......
.... ---w 00 ..... 8
z~
0.16
0.05
0.00
0.02
0.25
0.20
0.14
0.18
0.27
0.29
0.41
0.20
0.14
0.38
0.43
0.16
0.16
0.32
0.23
0.14
0.07
0.11
0.43
0.16 ,
""' '" o z
r:: Ul
ClJ <0
00
0 ......
.... ---w 00 ..... 8
z~
0.70
0.20
0.00
0.10
1.1
1.9
0.60
0.80
1.2
1.3
""' ...... u.
ClJ "' '0 <0 ..... .... ......
0---
...... 00 ..c: 8 u~
2.0
0.5
1.0
1.5
3.0
1.5
2.5
3.0
1.5
3.5
1.8 3.0
0.90 2.0
0.60 2.0
1.7 1.0
1.9 2.5
1.5
0.70 1.0
0.70 1.0
1.4 1.5
1.0 2.0
0.60 1.0
0.30 1.5
0.50 2.0
1.9 1.5
0.70 1.0
<0
""' N o .....
,Vl
Ul
<0
u ...... 'M ___
...... 00
'M 13 Vl ~
3.5
2.9
4.5
4.9
5.1
6.0
3.1
3.6
6.5
5.5
5.5
4.5
3.9
5.7
5.4
5.1
4.0
3.5
5.0
5.2
4.1
4.3
4.0
5.8
3.3
ClJ
'0 ""' ..... N
X 0 au .....
'0 Ul
<0 r::
0 ......
.a ---.... 00
<0 8
u~
54
7.9
15
36
3.4
2.4
2.1
5.3
2.6
2.9
3.0
2.2
2.6
3.4
2.8
1.2
1.5
3.4
2.3
2.3
2.5
1.8
0.9
1.6
1.3
""' oj o
til
Ul
ClJ <0 ...
<0 ...... .... ---...... 00
;:l 8
Vl ~
8.0
75
13
,11
12
8.0
10
12
10
11
5.0
10
10
11
13
10
9.0
8.0
11
9.0
8.0
9.0
12
10
6.0
I
~
ClJ Ul
'0 <0
'M ..........
0---;:l 0/) ...... s
~~
0.1
0.1
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.2
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.1
0.0
0.2
0.1
0.1
0.0
0.0
""' <0
U
Ul S <0
;:l
'M ...... u---...... 00
<0 S
u~
11
10
14
15
16
11
11
13
15
17
14
13
13
15
16
13
12
12
17
17
11
12
16
16
12
""' 00
8:>::
;:l Ul
'M <0
Ul
ClJ ..... r:: ___
0000
)!,5
1.5
1.4
1.7
1.0
1.4
1.2
1.9
1.4
1.0
1.4
1.4
1.7
0.7
1.9
1.9
2.1
0.7
1.5
1.6
1.2
1.5
0.9
1.5
1.1
0.7
8
;:I ......
.,.; ---'000 a S
til ~
0.7
0.6
1.2
1.1
1.6
1.1
1.2
1.5
1.8
1.6
1.5
1.1
1.4
1.3
1.3
1.0
0.8
0.7
1.5
1.6
0.7
0.7
1.4
1.4
0.9
0.6 70
0.7 60
0.6 120
0.5 0.0
0.6 120
0.4 70
0.2 70
0.6 20
0.8 20
0.4 240
0.5 100
0.6 100
0.7 60
0.6 20
0.5 40
0.4 50
0.4 20
0.6 20
0.6 70
0.5 o
0.3 30
0.5 50
0.7 30
0.4 20
0.3 20
Ul
'0 .....
...... o
Vl
'0
OJ
:>
...... ""' 0 ......
"' ---"' Of) .,.; 8
o~
41
39
55
53
62
50
47
52
58
64
51
51
49
59
64
52
:> o ..... ....
S
<0 ""' OJ Ul .... .... w U
Vl ~
1700
1670
179
91
87
1890
433
1130
142
86
1340
1750
335
237
242
1290
43 2620
45 413
62 90
60 179
43 2010
44 266
5<) 11'1
58 95
41 2580
; I i I
N
U1
I I
'I rail River
IlC'" r Lawing
I I • I • I I • I . , I • I I • I •
Figure 11 (Continued). Water quality analysis of streams in the project area.
n<lte/Time
10/11/63
N/T
1/1/64
N/T
4/1/64
N/T
7/1/64
N/T
10/1/64
N/T
1/1/65
N/T
4/23/65
N/T
7/11/65
N/T
10/13/65
N/T
1/ 10/G6
N/T
4/11/66
N/T
6/14/66
'!o/T
7/1/66
~~ /T
9/11/66
;,/T
11/13/66
N/T
1/02/67
~;/T
2/04/67
N/T
3/19/67
N/T
6/15/67
Ili
"" " 4J
oj
" OJ
0. ......
1= u
IliO
b'-'
>,
4J ...........
:> 5 ..... U
4J .......
U til
::l 0
-0 .c
0: EO
83-
7.2 70
7.3, 96
7.3 106
7.1 75
7.1 81
7.5 114
7.1 108
7.4 82
7.4 78
7.8 109
7.4 115
7.1 82
7.9 100
6.9 73
7.5 84
7.6 97
7.6 122
7.2 123
N/T 9.5 7.0 89
*8/04/67
N/T 12.0 7.1 66
*9/01l/67
NIT 8.5 7.0 67
10/18/67
1020 7.4 86
2/15/68
1140 0.5 7.6 118
1/16/69
1400 0.5 7.9 105
*9117/74
1130 9.0
23
33
36
24
25
39
37
27
28
42
38
26
25
23
28
40
43
43
30
22
22
28
42
34
......
""' o u
!'j
U
til til
til !'j
(jJ
0:'-< '" ......
"" 00 !'j 5
:I:'-'
30
47
49
34
35
50
45
36
34
50
52
42
33
32
37
52
55
52
40
28
32
38
52
42
Z
0: til
(jJ !'j
00
0'-< "" ...... .... 00 ..... 5
Z'-'
0.11
0.07
0.14
0.09
0.14
0.18
0.36
0.25
0.00
0.00
0.02
0.11
0.00
0.02
0.29
0.20
0.07
0.09
0.32
0.23
0.09
0.36
0.29
0.20
...... ""' ...... o .-< Z u
C' tI'J (l.I tI'J
(jJ!'j '"d!'j
00 ..... o......t ~,.....j
""........ 0 ......... 4.J eo ,.....j eo ..... s ..c:: s z'-" u'-"
0.50 1. 5
0.30 2.1
0.60 2.5
0.40 2.1
0.60 1.8
0.80 2.8
1.6 2.1
1.1 1.1
0.00 0.7
0.00 0.7
0.10 1.4
0.50 1. 4
0.00 0.0
0.10 0.0
1.3 0.7
0.90 0.4
0.30 0.4
0.40 0.0
1.4 0.0
1.0 0.7
0.40 0.7
1.6 0.7
1.3 1.4
0.90 0.7
......
N o .....
til
'" !'j
!'j
u'-< ............
.-<00 ..... S
til '-'
2.3
3.6
2.5
7.5
3.8
5.2
4.9
4.4
3.3
4.8
4.6
3.8
2.8
4.2
4.3
5.2
5.3
4.6
4.0
2.0
4.1
4.3
5.4
4.0
2.8
3.2
3.5
3.7
3.8
2.4
5.7
2.1
2.2
1.3
2.9
4.1
0.6
5.6
1.7
2.0
2.1
5.4
5.8
3.4
4.3
2.2
2.0
0.8
......
~ o
til
8.0
13
12
,11
12
14
10
9.6
9.1
11
11
12
9.6
12
11
15
14
14
12
10
9.0
11
14
10
~
., U)
'"d !'j .....
".-< 0 .......
" 00 .-< S
~'-'
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.1
0.1
0.1
0.2
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.1
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.1
0.0
0.0
0.1
0.1
0.1
0.0
0.0
......
!'j
U
til S !'j
::l ..... .-<
u .......
.-< 00
!'j e u '-'
10
16
18
11
13
18
13
11
12
18
18
12
8.4
12
13
19
20
16
14
10
9.5
14
19
15
1.2
1.7
1.0
1.6
0.6
1.2
3.0
2.1
1.0
1.2
1.7
2.9
2.9
0.5
0.9
1.3
1.3
1.3
1.0
0.8
1.3
0.9
1.2
1.1
I i i
1.8 0.3 80
1.3 0.0 20
1.5 0.0 40
1.8 0.0 20
2.2 1.7 80
2.5 1.0 40
2.0 0.8 20
1.5 0.8 20
0.6 0.4 o
1.5 0.0 a
1.2 1.0 40
0.6 0.4 80
0.6 0.0 20
0.5 12
1.5 0.6 o
2.4 0.6 a
2.3 0.4 a
2.1 0.4 a
0.8 0.1 a
0.9 0.1 310
0.9 0.9 380
0.8 0.7 350
1.3 0.4 280
1.5 0.2 830
til
'"d . .... .... o
til
'"d
Ili
;> ..........
0 ....
til .......
til 00 .", S
Q'-'
39
58
60
50
51
69
60
48
44
62
62
49
39
43
50
69
70
65
51
38
40
51
69
54
608
175
303
2010
612
215
428
2500
511
127
127
2010
2020
3360
726
113
100
90
1810
1700
4100
571
191
63
3030
I , I
Ptarmigan
Creek at
Lawing
Date/Time
<lI ...
:>
'"' m ... c;
o.~
E U
<lIO
E-<"-'
Figure
~ ..,
'';~ > E ''; u .., ......
U en
:I 0 ",.c
<= E :a 83-
7/10/50 10.0 7.3 113
N/T 10.0 7.3 113
8/22/50
N/T 11.0 93
10/04/50
N/T 6.5 7.2
2/27/52
2145 0.0 7.2 143
5/20/52
1900 6.5 7.2 99
6/19/52
2200 6.5 7.4 113
7/24/52
1445 6.8 110
8/21/52
N/T 6.7 104
9/16/52
2000 8.5 7.0 108
1/ 30/ 53
1900 0.0 6.9 121
4/15/53
0600 2.0 7.2 117
8/06/53
1700 11.0 6.1 95
1/21/55
N/T 6.5 121
9/08/55
N/T 6.9 108
5/01/ 56
N/T 7.4 115
5/31/56
1000
7/03/56
N/T
10/03/57
1230
11/06/57
N/T
12/11/57
1055
1/22/58
1000
2/19/58
1115
5/21/58
0930
7/16/58
0945
10/20/58
1800 , ,
7.1 112
8.5 136
5.5 7.1 113
5.0
1.0
0.0
9.0
10.5
10.0 " ~
6.7
7. 1
7.3
7.6
7.0
7.0
6.9
!
209
121
122
129
115
116
110
11 (Continued). Water quality analysis of streams in the project area.
~
C") o
U m
~u
'" ''; en
<= <1l
'';
.-< .-<
~"M
~5
37
30
34
46
31
38
35
35
34
39
36
32
38
36
35
35
45
39
39
42
41
42
37
38
34
52
41
41
70
47
55
50
46
50
54
55
52
54
48
49
49
53
60
70
52
55
58
55
55
50
~
C") o
U m
U z
<= Ul
<lI m
00
0'-< .........
.., 00 ''; a z"-'
0.36
0.25
0.59
0.29
0.54
0.34
0.36
0.43
0.29
0.34
0.59
0.27
0.23
0.27
0.70
0.52
0.36
0.25
0.38
0.34
0.32
0.23
0.56
0.27
0.20
e •
~
C") o z
<= en
<lI m
00
0'-< .........
... 00 ''; a z"-'
1.6
1.1
2.6
1.3
2.4
1.5
1.6
1.9
1.3
1.5
2.6
1.2
1.0
1.2
3.1
2.3
1.6
1.1
1.7
1.5
1.4
1.0
2.5
1.2
0.9
~
.-<
U
<lI Ul
'" m '';
... .-<
0 ......
.-< 00 .c a
U"-'
0.8
0.6
0.4
0.2
1.0
2.2
0.2
0.5
0.2
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.4
0.5
1.2
0.8
1.2
0.5
15
1.0
1.5
1.5
2.5
2.5
2.5
~
N o
'';
Ul
en m m
u.-< . .; ......
.-< 00 ''; s
Ul "-'
4.7
4.3
7.6
4.7
5.3
4.7
6.3
7.7
5.2
4.8
5.7
4.7
4.7
5.8
5.9
4.8
17
4.6
5.5
5.2
5.1
4.8
5.2
4.8
4.3
<lI
"'~ ''; N
~
~o ou
'';
'" en
~ o
Ul
en m <= 0'-<
.0 ......
... 00 m a
U"-'
<lI m ..,
m'-< ..........
.-< 00
:I a
Ul "-'
3.6 15
14
4.2 14
5.7 '32
3.8 15
2.9 19
11 17
14 15
6.7 19
9.7 17
4.4 17
50 13
23 14
8.9 16
2.7 15
5.5 16
0.2 16
6.1 18
15 16
6.5 14
4.0 14
2.0 18
7.2 17
7.4 17
8.5 16
~
~
<lI en
'" m '';
... .-<
0 ......
:I 00
.-< S
~"-'
0.0
0.0
0.1
0.0
0.1
0.1
0.1
0.1
0.0
0.0
0.1
0.0
0.0
0.4
0.1
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.1
0.0
0.1
~ m u
en a m
:I ''; .-< u ......
.-< 00 m S U"-'
18
13
15
26
16
19
16
16
17
19
19
15
19
16
17
18
19
18
25
18
19
19
18
18
17
1.7
2 .1
3.2
1.3
1.7
1.8
2.2
1.6
1.9
1.6
1.9
1.1
1.6
1.9
1.7
1.1
1.4
3.5
1.9
1.8
1.9
2.4
2.5
2.5
1.7
I
-;:;
Z
en
E m
:1.-< . .; ......
'" 00 o a
Ul "-'
1.3
1.5
1.3
1.5
1.5
1.2
0.8
1.3
1.5
1.3
6.2
1.5
1.7
2.2
1.8
1.7
1.3
1.2
1.2
I
50
60
20
10
90
70
0.9 60
0.8 70
0.8 60
1.1 110
1.1 30
0.7 40
0.7 40
0.8 o
0.8 o
1.0 o
1.0 o
1.0 50
1.1 60
1.0 60
1.2 o
1.1 o
0.8 o
0.8 50
0.6 30
en
'" '';
.-< o
Ul
'" OJ > .-<~
0'-< en ...... en 00
''; E
Q"-'
65
56
72
98
62
74
67
66
67
71
71
57
75
65
67
66
91
72
91
70
71
75
72
71
65
I
285
248
10
12
25
200
296
135
86
31
279
3l
118
37
H2
268
98
220
50
20
lOG
251
230
i ,
I , I
Stat illn ~Llnlt~
Grant Creek
near Hoose
Pass
I I I
Date/Time
7/05/50
N/T
10/07/50
N/T
1130/50
N/T
4/16/53
1115
1/21/55
N/T
5/1/56
N/T
5/30/56
1100
7/03/56
N/T
10/03/57
1400
12/11/57
1115
1122/58
i
'" ....
::> ...
'" :..
'" c.. '"' IOU
"'0 E-:,'-"
8.5
6.5
2.0
0.0
6.5
1.0
I
7.1
7.0
7.2
7.2
7.0
7.4
7.0
7.0
7.0
6.7
1330 0.0 7.2
2/19/58
1130 7.2
4/21/58
1000 5.0 6.4
7/16/'.08
]030 11.0 6.3
'G/2l1S:)
0920
Falls Creek 5/1/56
nC'3 r L1'..I i ng NIT
7/03/56
NIT
Victur Creek 5/0l/56
nf1;lr 1,;~t.Jine NIT
Cartl'r Creek 4/30/56
ncnr Moose Pass NIT
N/T=No time
10.5 6.8
7.0
6.6
6.8
7.4
I
Figure
:>.. ... .... '"' :> e .... u .........
U III
::> 0 "<J.c c: a
8~
71
67
76
75
73
72
67
73
65
70
75
76
81
71
73
94
91
119
74
i
11
25
21
23
24
25
24
23
21
22
23
26
26
22
21
24
26
16
30
24
I •
C"'I o u
'" U
III III
III '" '" C:.-< "<J ......
.... 00
'" 8 :I:'-"
34
29
29
32
32
3D,
29
30
32
29
33
32
34
32
32
39
22
52
32
I •
£'
C III
OJ '" 00
0.-< ..........
..,00 .... e z'-"
0.32
0.41
0.59
0.25
0.05
0.23
0.14
0.27
0.18
0.20
0.20
0.27
0.18
0.20
0.07
1.1
I •
'"' C"'I o z
C III
OJ '" M
0.-< .......... .., OD .... e z'-"
1.4
1.8
2.6
1.1
0.2
1.0
0.6
1.2
0.8
0.9
0.9
1.2
0.8
0.9
0.3
4.9
'"' .-<
U
OJ III
'0 III ....
.... .-<
0 ......
.-< OD
.c a u'-"
1.0
0.8
1.2
1.5
0.3
0.0
0.2
0.2
0.5
2.0
1.0
1.0
2.0
2.0
0.5
1.0
1.0
3.3
1.0
I I
'"' N o ....
'" III
'" '" 0'-< ..........
.-<00 .... a '" '-"
4.9
5.3
4.2
3.4
3.9
4.0
3.3
4.9
3.2
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4.7
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3.7
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5.6
•
'" '0 '"' .... N
)<0 o u ....
'0 III
'" C
0'-<
.0 ......
.... M
'" 8 u'-"
3.8
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2.9
4.8
1.8
4.5
4.2
4.3
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3.2
17
20
7.4
5.1
7.6
9.1
1.8
I •
'"' "" o
'" III
OJ '" 4J
"'.-< ..........
.-<OD =' OJ til '-"
9.5
8.2
8.2
12
12
9.2
6.7
8.0
9.5
7.0
9.0
8.0
9.0
10
9.0
II
6.5
18
4.8
~
OJ III
'0 III ....
.... .-<
0 ...... =' M
.-< a
~'-"
0.1
0.1
0.1
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.1
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.1
0.1
0.0
*Suspcnded sediments s3mpled these dates: 8/04/67-16 mg/l, 9/08/67-40 mg/l, 9/17/74-30 mg/l
Source: U.S. Geological Survey 1981
l
'"' '" o
III
OJ '" ::> .... .-<
0 ......
.-<OD
III a
U'-"
II
10
10
11
11
11
11
11
9.1
9.9
11
10
10
11
10
14
7.9
19
12
1.7
0.9
0.9
1.2
1.1
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0.3
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1.2
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1.0
1.6
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1.0
0.4
e ::>.-< .... ......
'0 OD o OJ '" '-"
1.8
0.5
1.0
0.7
1.2
0.9
1.3
1.1
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0.8
0.7
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1.7
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2.3
1.5
e~
::> III . ... '" L'l
L'l'-<
0 ......
4J OD o e p..'-"
0.9
0.6
1.0
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0.4
0.8
1.3
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0.6
0.6
0.6
0.7
0.6
0.8
0.9
0.9
40
80
50
20
40
o
o
o
60
80
o
o
70
30
50
o
Ul
'0 ....
.-< o
'"
'0
W
:>
..-< '"' 0'-< Ul __
III OD .... OJ
COl'-"
42
44
47
44
42
37
40
40
41
46
44
42
42
40
45
) o
.-<
"-' S o ~
OJ Ul .... ....
4J U '" '-"
497
139
19
26
50
20
157
460
143
61
51
30
156
393
390
A limited limnological survey by USFWS (1961) was conducted in
1960 at Ptarmigan and Grant lakes. A temperature profile obtained in
July 1960 at Ptarmigan Lake showed a smooth decline in temperature
from 58°F at the surface to 40°F at 230 ft with no thermocline.
Figure 12 provides the water chemistry data obtained for Ptarmigan
Lake on the same date. Temperature profiles were obtained for both
upper and lower Grant Lake in July 1960. Upper Grant Lake varied from
49°F on the surface to 41°F at 200 ft with no evidence of a thermo-
cline. Temperatures for lower Grant Lake varied from 55°F at the
surface to 39°F at 200 ft with evidence of a thermocline beginning to
form between 10 and 25 ft below the surface. Figure 12 gives water
chemistry data collected on that date for Grant Lake.
ADF&G and USFS conducted a limnological survey of Grant Lake in
1981. Figures 13 and 14 give thermal, dissolved oxygen, and solar
illuminance profiles for June 1981 at Grant Lake. During this survey
Grant Lake showed sufficiant oxygen at depth, a thermocline near 20 m,
and a 1 percent incidence light level of 19 m in the lower basin and
13 m in the upper basin. The water column above the 1 percent inci-
dence light level contains sufficient light for photosynthesis to take
place.
Most freshwater productivity studies on the Kenai Peninsula have
been conducted on the larger salmon-producing streams, particularly
the Kenai and Russian rivers. USGS has expended minimal effort in
past years, and ADF&G has only in recent years expanded their fresh-
water productivity research.
Water chemistry data collected by USGS (1981) indicated that pro-
ject area waters have low to moderate levels of alkalinity and hard-
ness. Sufficient dissolved oxygen is present throughout the year, and
conditions are conducive to year-round fish survival. Nutrient
content of the water is generally low except where the nutrients from
salmon carcasses (principally phosphorus and nitrogen) are introduced
after the spawning season. Grant Creek is the only water body in the
project area with a large enough salmon population to produce nu-
trients from salmon carcasses.
28
1,"1"
IP'
"'"
"".
....
M,.
.'
-
..
.. ...
--•
---
--..
... --.. -..
-
• -..
-..
-
"'.
....
Figure 12. Water quality analysis (surface) of
Ptarmigan and Grant lakes, July 15, 1960.
Lake
Ptarmigan
Grant
CO 2
(ppm)
0.4
0.5
HCO
(ppmj
31.0
27.0
DO
(ppm)
5.4
5.6
1 As reported by u.s. Fish and Wildlife Service (1961) •
Source: u.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1961.
29
pH
7.4
7.2
Turbidityl
(ppm)
12.5
Depth
(m)
Figure 13. Vertical temperature, dissolved oxygen, and
solar illuminance profiles, Grant Lake, lower
basin, June 10, 1981.
Solar Illuminance
Temperature Dissolved Oxygen (foot candles)
(oe) (mg/l) Up
Incidence 1500
Surface 10.0 11.3 620
0.5 690
1.0 9.8 1l.5 550
1.5 620
2.0 9.0 11.7 620
2.5 600
3.0 8.8 1l.8 550
3.5 490
4.0 8.5 1l.8 450
4.5 380
5.0 8.2 11.9 370
6.0 8.2 11.9 300
7.0 7.8 12.0 230
8.0 7.5 12.1 230
9.0 7.2 12.1 150
10.0 7.2 12.1 150
11.0 95
12.0 82
13 .0 66
14.0 57
15.0 6.5 12.2 45
16.0 37
17.0 26
18.0 211
19.0 16
20.0 5.7 12.1 13
21.0 12
25.0 4.8 12.2
30.0 4.5 12.0
40.0 4.2 12.0
50.0 . 4.0 11.9
11% incidence light level.
Source: Alaska Department of Fish and Game 1981.
30
...
IP!'"
...
.-*'
.... ..
...
"~,
•••
.. ¥~
... ~
k"l
"P'
."
.~.
"t:
.,
."'~
III'
.~~
lIP
l1li. ..
... , ..
lilli, .. . , -..
'"
,u.
.,'"
• -.. ---.-
-
• -.. -• ---,
•
\WIll' .,
... -
...
.... ~ -....
:l1li
-
Depth
(m)
Figure 14. Vertical temperature, dissolved oxygen, and
solar illuminance profiles, Grant Lake, upper
basin, June 10, 1981.
Solar Illuminance
Temperature Dissolved Oxygen (foot candles)
(oC) (mg/l) Up
Incidence 7100
Surface 11.8 11.6 4100
0.5 3500
1.0 8.6 11.8 2200
1.5 2500
2.0 7.2 11.9 2000
2.5 760
3.0 7.9 12.0 850
3.5 1150
4.0 7.8 12.0 1200
4.5 1000
5.0 7.7 12.1 820
6.0 7.5 12.0 590
7.0 7.4 11.8 410
8.0 7.2 11.9 300
9.0 7.0 12.0 230
10.0 6.8 11.9 190
11.0 130
12.0 99 1 13.0 77
14.0 56
15.0 5.9 12.4 41
16.0
17.0
18.0
19.0
20.0 6.0 12.3
30.0 5.0 12.6
40.0 4.9 12.6
50.0 4.8 12.6
60.0 4.5 12.6
11% incidence light level.
Source: Alaska Department of Fish and Game 1981.
31
611
Figure 15. Vertical temperatures profiles of Grant Lake, lower basin.
..
H·,;
.~ .
.. '
."
.,'
....
lilt .,
••
1M • ..
I .. "
••
I.!~
.-
60
o 5 10 15 '0iI, .,
Temperature (OC) .,
.'
ua. -32 ..
Fi~ure 16. Vertical temperature profiles of Grant Lake, upper basin.
-..
.-
Depth (m)
0
.-I
I --10 -,. October 1981
-----
• 20 -August 1982 ,.
-.-30
---40
.-
-,. I
50 , -I ---60
0 5 -10 15 ..
Temperature (OC) -..
.... 33
...
•• >
Figure 17. Dissolved oxygen measurements for Grant Lake.
.."
Dissolved Oxxg en (mg/1)
October 1981 June 1982
Lower Upper Lower Upper
Depth (m) Basin Basin Basin Basin
'"''
Surface 10.75 10.5 14.0 14.5
1 13.5
2 13.5
3 13.5
4 13.5
5 13.5
6 13.5
7 13.5
8 13.5
9 13.5
10 13.5
15 12.9 ...
20 12.5
25 12.5
30 12.4
35 12.4
.,
40 12.0
45 11.8
50 11.0 •. '
52 9.75 10.8
54 10.25 ..
... '
..
..
••
.. I.
34 -•
I I i I! II 11 II. I • I Ii" Ii Ii I ••• I • • t
Figure 18. Water quality data for Grant Lake.
October 1981 1 March 1982 1 June 1982 August 1982
Lower Upper Lower Upper
Parameter Basin Basin Basin Basin
Nitrate (mg/l) 0.21 0.34 0.31 0.38 0.11 ND
Orthophosphate (mg/l) ND2 0.13 ND ND ND ND
Total hardness (mg/1 as CaC0 3 ) 32 30 27 31 33 27
Alkalinity (mg/l as CaC0 3 ) 20 28 20 10 24 24
Total dissolved solids (mg/1) 51 87 33 28 41 47
w Suspended solids (mg/l) 8.6 4 1.3 2 1.3 1.3 VI
pH (standard units) 6.2 7.3 NM 3 NM 7.6 7.3
Water clarity (m) 2 NM 5 2.5 2 0.5
Turbidity (NTU) 3.8 0.46 0.24 0.4 0.67 1.9
Conductivity (umhos/crn) 61 8 59 48 61 48
Coliforms (It/100 ml) 0 0 0 0 0 0
Sulfate (mg/l) NM 6.3 5.9 6.5 4.5 4.8
Chloride (mg/l) NM ND 2 ND ND ND
1. Composite sample
2. ND = not detectable
3. NM = not measured
RESULTS OF THE FIELD PROGRAM
Water samples were collected in both basins of Grant Lake as well
as Grant Creek, Vagt Creek, and Falls Creek in October 1981. Grant
Lake as well as Grant Creek and Vagt Creek were sampled in March 1982,
and both basins of Grant Lake, Grant Creek, and Falls Creek were
sampled in June and August 1982. Figures 15 and 16 illustrate the
vertical temperature profiles for both lake basins. Figure 17 pro-
vides dissolved oxygen data, and Figure 18 gives other water quality
data obtained for Grant Lake. Additional suspended solids and tur-
bidity measurements were taken for both basins of Grant Lake in June
and August 1982. Figure 19 provides the results. Dissolved oxygen
measurments were not taken in March and August 1982 due to equipment
failure, and adverse weather conditions in June 1982 precluded any
midlake sampling efforts in the upper basin. Figures 20, 21, and 22
provide water quality data for Grant, Falls, and Vagt creeks, respec-
tively.
Lakes in general are broadly classified into two opposing types:
eutrophic (rich in nutrients) and oligotrophic (poor in nutrients)
(Ruttner 1971). Grant Lake is an oligotrophic lake, as are most deep
wilderness area lakes of southcentral Alaska. Most temperate lakes,
like those on the Kenai Peninsula, undergo freely circulating periods
(holomictic) and are generally thermally stratified with two circu-
lation periods each year (dimictic). Although most deep lakes are
dimictic, some do not mix completely during each circulation period.
Incomplete spring mixing occurs more often than incomplete fall mixing
because breakup occurs shortly before the summer solstice when heat
transfer to the water is rapid, causing stratification which limits
circulation. The results of our water quality sampling program
indicate that wate.r bodies in the Grant Lake hydroelectric project
area have characteristics similar to other water bodies in the Kenai
River drainage.
The process of thermal stratification can be important to organ-
isms inhabiting lakes since oxygen depletion can occur in noncircu-
lating waters below the thermocline. Textbook thermoclines are not
usually found in glacial systems because insufficient sunlight
penetrates to heat the turbid water and stimulate mixing. Observa-
36
,.,
••
...
....
, .. ,
... ,
.,.
...
.. '
.. ..
1iO,
.'
...'
... ',
....
-
''''
-
-
Figure 19. Water quality data for Grant Lake, 50 m depth.
-June 1982 August 1982
Lower Upper Lower Upper
Parameter Basin Basin Basin Basin
-Turbidity (NTU) 0.28 0.43 0.24 0.46
....
Suspended Solids (mg/l) 1.1 1.9 0.3 1.0
..
-..
-..
-
-..
--
-
-
-
-37
Figure 20. Water quality data for Grant Creek.
Parameter October 1981 March 1982 June 1982 August 1982
Nitrate (mg/l) 0.18 0.36 0.25 ND
Orthophosphate (mg/l) ND1 0.04 ND ND
Total Hardness (mg/l as CaC0 3 ) 31 30 28 28
Alkalinity (mg/l as CaC0 3 ) 18 26 19 24
Total dissolved solids (mg/l) 34 84 31 48
Suspended solids (mg/l) 0.6 1 1 4.3
LV pH (standard units) 6.2 7.2 NM 2 7.2 co
0 Temperature ( C) 6.0 1.0 6.5 12.5
Turbidity (NTU) 0.82 0.41 0.35 1.1
Conductivity (pmhos/cm) 51 14 60 NM
Coliforms (11/100 ml) 0 0 0 0
Sulfate (mg/l) NM 6.2 4.0 4.9
Chloride (mg/l) NM ND ND ND
l. ND = not detectable
2. NM= not measured
"il II " "'1"" f 1 , 1 ; ; I * I
Figure 21. Water quality data for Falls Creek •
..
-Parameter October 1981 June 1982 August 1982 ,.-
Nitrate (mg/l) 0.11 0.12 ND
.-ND1 Orthophosphate (mg/l) ND ND
Total Hardness
ill
(mg/l as CaC0 3) 39 27 25
Alkalinity (mg/l as CaC0 3 ) 24 17 20 -Total dissolved solids (mg/l) 60 24 33
Suspended solids (mg/l) ND 86 2.3
iIIIiII
NM 2 pH (standard units) 6.3 7.3
0 Temperature ( C) 3.5 4.0 5.5
''-
Turbidity (NTD) 0.37 6.0 0.48
' ..
• Conductivity (pmhos/cm) 60 150 45
-Coliforms (iI/lOa ml) 0 a 0 ,.
Sulfate (mg/l) NM 5.4 4.8 -Chloride (mg/l) NM ND ND -
1. ND = not detectable .. 2. NM = not measured
""" ..
' ..
IiMi
..
, .....
39 -
Figure 22. Water quality data for Vagt Creek.
Parameter
Nitrate (mg/l)
Orthophosphate (mg/l)
Total Hardness (mg/l as CaC0 3)
Alkalinity (mg/l as CaC0 3 )
Total dissolved solids (mg/l)
Suspended solids (mg/l)
pH (standard units)
o Temperature ( C)
Turbidity (NTU)
Conductivity (umhos/cm)
Coliforms (#/100 ml)
Sulfate (mg/l)
Chloride (mg/l)
1. ND = not detectable
2. NM = not measured
October 1981
0.44
ND1
32
26
46
ND
6.1
6.5
0.22
66
0
NM
NM
40
..
March 1982 ...
."
0.9 ....
ND .'
27 ....
..
28
94 ii,
5 .... '
6.6
1.0 ..
0.24
NM 2 .. '
0 .. '
3.7
ND
.'
... , ..
...
..
..
-•
..
..
..
--.... ..
-..
-
-..
-
• ----
-
-
-..
.-
--
-
tions at Grant Lake in the months of June and August, 1982, and
October, 1981, showed it to be gradually stratified with evidence of a
thermocline in August and no significant decrease in dissolved oxygen
with depth. Grant Lake showed the most stratification in August.
The effect of pH values on fish has been investigated since the
1920's. The pH of natural waters varies from about 4 to 9, the lower
values being found in boggy areas, the higher ones in alkaline streams
in drier portions of the United States • Ellis, Westfall, and Ellis
(1946) stated that more common values range from 6.7 to 8.6 and that
in 90 percent of the areas where freshwater fish were found, the pH
range was 6.7 to 8.2. Normally, the lower the pH value, the lower the
mineral content. Generally, waters slightly on the alkaline side
support more fish than waters on the acid side. The pH of Grant Lake,
Grant Creek, Falls Creek, and Vagt Creek are-slightly acidic to
slightly basic (6.0 to 7.6) and reflect typical pH levels measured by
ADF&G throughout the Kenai drainage (J. Koenigs, pers. comm.; USGS
1981) .
Specific conductance is a measure of a water's capacity to carry
an electric current. It is directly proportional to the concentration
of dissolved solids and is an indication of nutrient availability.
Most lakes surveyed by ADF&G in southeast Alaska have a specific con-
ductance of less than 50 micromhos/cm (Schmidt and Robards 1975),
which suggests low productivity. Watsjold (1976), in studies of upper
Cook Inlet basin lakes, stated that on the basis of conductance values
alone, waters with values less than 100 micromhos/cm generally yield
poorer catches than those having greater electrolyte concentrations.
Limited data are available on fresh waters of the Kenai Peninsula.
Water bodies in the project area surveyed by USGS have a specific
conductance varying between 50 and 135 micromhos/cm (USGS 1981). Our
studies have determined that specific conductance in project area
waters usually varies bet'tleen 50 and 70 micromhos/cm.
Values for hardness and alkalinity (as caC03 ) below 40, pH values
below 7.5, and specific conductance between 50 and 70 for project area
waters indicate soft waters with only moderate productivity potential.
The project area waters are characterized by a predominance of Ca++
3-among cations and IICO among anions.
41
Small differences in chemical composition that occur between
Grant Lake, Grant Creek, Falls Creek, Vagt Creek, and other water
bodies in southcentral Alaska probably reflect differences in drainage
basin geology, al ti tude, and morphometric characteristics. The low
specific conductance, low concentrations of dissolved solids, and low
alkalini ty and hardness indicate low productivity for proj ect area
waters. The results from our field trips are similar to USGS (1981)
data from the project area and indicate that project area water bodies
have chemical and physical characteristics similar to those measured
elsewhere in the Kenai drainage basin (J. Koenigs, pers. comm.; USFWS
1961; USGS 1981).
42
..
-
....
....
IIW
....
."
.....
1liii' .. . ' .. . ' ..
...
... ..
lIIOI
1liii'
... .. .. -..
•
•
••
-
-
..
.... ..
-..
. -..
.-
• -.. -..
..
.. -..
-..
..
'-
..
AQUATIC BIOTA
MACROPHYTES
We found two conspicuous macrophytes in the small lakes and ponds
in the study area. These were water lilies and buckbean. White water
crowfoot grows along the shore of Grant Lake but is abundant only at
the outlet of the lake. A small stand of a sedge was found in a
protected cove at the narrows between the upper and lower Grant Lake
basins. This sedge was also seen bordering a small stream near Grant
Lake. Though USFWS (1961) found two species of green filamentous
algae, brown algae, water milfoil and cattail in the project area
waters, these species were not observed during the 1981-82 field
investigations .
INVERTEBRATES
EXISTING KNOWLEDGE OF THE PROJECT AREA
Food production areas are an important habitat component for
juvenile salmon and trout. Density of fish may be regulated by the
abundance of food which may come from the substrate, the surrounding
land, or the plankton of a lake. The aquatic invertebrates are an
important index of the productivity and quality of an aquatic environ-
ment. Plankton constitute an important component in the aquatic food
chain and provide a food storage base for fish and other aquatic
organisms .
The makeup of the zooplankton in glacier-influenced aquatic
systems generally renders these lakes less productive for raising fish
than clear water systems. In such systems zooplankton populations are
·generally comprised of copepods and rotifers with a marked absence of
cladocerans (J. Koenings, pers. comm.). Cladocerans are common in
clear water systems and are easier prey for sight feeders like fish
than are copepods. Rotifers are generally too small and transparent
to make up a significant portion of the diet of fish.
Macroinvertebrates constitute a major consumer group in the
aquatic ecosystem. Included are organisms that dwell in or on the
lake or flowing-water substratum. The group is composed primarily of
43
immature or larval insects--an important link in the aquatic food
chain which provides a forage base for most fish and larger aquatic
vertebrates. This group feeds on detritus, other insects, bacteria,
plankton, and larval fish. Changes or disruptions in the aquatic
environment, such as in temperature regimes, turbidity, sedimentation
of the stream bed, and dissolved oxygen concentrations, can markedly
influence the number and types of macroinvertebrates present. Such
changes ultimately can alter the numbers and types of fish that the
water body can sustain. Since macroinvertebrates are sampled easily
and are quickly affected by changes in water quality, they can serve
as convenient early indicators of possible changes in water quality
(U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 1978).
Hynes (1970) stated that the benthic fauna of streams is remark-
ably similar worldwide and that alpine cold-water streams are occupied
by a definite, although limited, very-cold-water tolerant macroinver-
tebrate fauna, which is adapted to specific conditions sharply defined
by consistently low temperatures and (often) unique characteristics of
glacial meltwater. The implication is that even relatively minor
alterations in such habitats may reduce both the specifically adapted
macro invertebrate fauna and the corresponding fish fauna.
Bottom fauna have been collected throughout Alaska by various
groups (Craig and McCart 1974, Craig and Wells 1975, Elliott and Reed
1973, McCoy 1974, Nauman and Kernodle 1974). The most abundant
benthic organisms found in Alaska are Dipterans. Ephemeroptera,
Plecoptera, and Trichoptera are generally abundant in streams, and
Oligochaeta and pelecypoda are often common in lakes. Little specific
information is available for the Kenai drainage.
Zooplankton were collected by ADF&G from both Grant Lake basins
in June 1981 and August 1982. Figure 23 lists the zooplankton
organisms found in 1981 and their density. The 1982 data is still
incomplete but preliminary results show a similar make-up of organisms
as in 1981 (B. Aetland, pers. comm.). Preliminary results indicate
that Grant Lake may be one of the most productive lakes in the Kenai
system based on the existing large populations of copepods and
rotifers (J. Koenigs, pers. comm.).
44
-
...
"'"
....
....
.... '
"""
,,"' ..
.' ..
lOt
..
-
..
... -.. -
' ...
-.. -..
..
-..
..
--
--
--.. -..
-..
Figure 23. Identification and enumeration of zooplankton
for Grant Lake, June 1981.
Taxa
Eucopepoda (copepods)
Cyclopoida
Nauplii
Rotatoria (rotifers)
Kellicottia
Asplanchna
Number
(Organisms/m3 )
Lower Upper
Basin
1,558
2,384
2,273
385
Basin
13,654
740
4,269
1,154
Source: Alaska Department of Fish and Game 1981.
45
In 1959-60 the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service surveyed Grant Lake
at the mouths of its various tributaries to determine the species
composi tion of aquatic invertebrates. At the time of this study
caddis flies, stone flies, blackflies, and snails were recorded (USFWS
1961).
Figure 24 gives the results of a macroinvertebrate survey con-
ducted by WAPORA, Inc. during early June 1977. This cursory study was
limi ted to the mainstem Kenai River and the lower reaches of major
tributaries. The study concentrated on mayflies and stone flies
because these groups are known to be important to immature salmon as a
food source and because they are often sensitive to changes in stream
conditions. Sampling procedure involved kicking the substrate
upstream from a stationary small-mesh screen or net and hand-picking
larger rocks and logs. Species identifications were based on adult,
mature pupae, and occasionally on larvae of well-studied genera.
Several forms indicative of very cold environments were found to be
widespread in the study area (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 1978).
Figure 25 gives the results of a survey by the USFS during June
1972 on Vagt Lake and tributaries. The area was found to be rich in
blackflies and chironomids and to have average numbers of mayflies,
stone flies, and caddis flies. The abundance of benthic invertebrates
collected by Howse (1972) led him to believe that Vagt Lake provided
an average food source for fish.
RESULTS OF THE FIELD PROGRAM
Zooplankton were collected by AEIDC in each basin of Grant Lake
in October 1981 and March, June, and August 1982. Figure 26 lists
zooplankton types and their density for each lake basin. Two species
.of rotifers and one cyclopoid copepod species appear to dominate the
zooplankton composition in Grant Lake. This agrees with the 1981
preliminary findings by ADF&G. The near absence of cladocerans would
be expected in a glacier-fed lake. The presence of large numbers of
copepods, although not as suitable as cladocerans from a purely food
source point of view, would make Grant Lake a compatible environment
for a pelagic fish nursery.
46
."
,.."
.. ,
...
.'
.,
.'
-
...
...
.....
• ..
---
--
-• -• -----
• -
-
..
.. -..
-..
Figure 24. Macroinvertebrates collected in June 1977
by WAPORA, Inc., by site.
Taxa Collection Location 1
P-Annelida
C-Hirundinella (leeches)
Haemopsis marmorata (t~ntative)
Placobdella parasitica (tentative)
P-Arthropoda
C-Crustacea
O-Amphipoda (scuds)
F-Gammaridae
Gammarus lacustris
~. (Anisogammarus) confevicolus
C-Insecta
O-Coleoptera (beetles)
F-Gyrinidae
Gyrinus picipes
G. minutus
~. pleuralis (tentative)
F-Hydraenidae
Octhebius disrectus
F-Dytiscidae
Agabus anthracinus
A. verus
Illybius augustior
Hydroporus tartaricus
H. occidentalis
~. griseostriatus (tentative)
H. tademus
Hygrotus sp.
Rhantus wallisi (tentative)
R. suturellus
F-Hydrophilidae
Helophorus auricollis
H. fenniculus E. splendenoides (tentative)
Hydrobius fusipes
O-Diptera (flies)
F-Chironornidae (at least 4 species)
F-Dolichopodidae (undet. genus, larvae
in coastal marsh)
47
9
9
9
1
5
4
4
1
2,
4
2,
5,
15
2
15
4
2,
15
15
15
2
4
1,
1
5
4, 5
15
4
5, 7, 11, 13, 16
Figure 24 (Continued). Macroinvertebrates collected
in June 1977 by WAPORA, Inc., by site.
Taxa
F-Empididae
Wiedomannia sp. (tentative)
Undetermined genus
F-Tipulidae
Tipula sp.
F-Simuliidae (diversity not considered)
F-Tabanidae
Tabanus sp. (coastal marsh only)
O-Ephemeroptera
F-Ephemerellidae
Ephemerella (Drunella) doddsi
E. inermis
F-Baetidae
Baetis sp. (two tails)
Baetis sp. (three tails)
Baetis sp.
F-Heptageniidae
Epeorus (Ironopsis) sp.
Cinvgma sp.
Cinygmula sp.
F-Siphlonuridae
Ameletus validus
O-Hemiptera (true bugs)
F-Corixidae
F-Salididae
Soldul.:1 sp.
O-Odonata (dragonflies and damselflies)
F-Aeshnidae
Aeshna j\lncea
O-Plecoptera (stoncflies)
F-Ptcronarcidac
Pteronarcella hadia
F-Perlidae
Alloperla sp.
48
Collection Location 1
11
16
16
4
2, 13, 16
1
6, 13, 16
2, 5, 6, 7, 10, 13-15
11, 13, 15, 16
2, 4-6, 10-14
3
16
11
10, 12, 13, 16
5, 16
16
15
1
4, 5
7, 11-13
5, 6, 10-12, 14, 15
.,
..
.. ..
. \~
"'-
.'
...
... .'
-
..
-
-
-,.,
---
--
••
-
-..
.. -..
-..
--.-..
-.. -•
--
,-
.. -..
--
Figure 24 (Continued). Macroinvertebrates collected
in June 1977 by WAP~RA, Inc., by site.
Taxa
F-Perlodidae
Isoperla sp.
F-Nemouridae
Nemoura (Zapoda) sp.
F-Leuctridae
Leuctra occidentalis (tentative)
F-Capniidae
Eucapnopsis brevidens
O-Trichoptera (caddisflies)
F-Rhyacophilidae
Rhyacophila sp. 1
Rhyacophila sp. 2
Rhyacophila sp. 3
F-Glossosomatidae
Glossosoma alascense
G. intermedium
Glossosoma sp.
F-Philopotamidae
Wormaldia sp.
F-Hydropsychidae
Arctopsyche ladogensis
Hydropsyche sp. (H. bifida group)
F-Hydroptilidae
Oxyethira sp.
F-Limnephilidae
Ecclisomyia conspersa
Nemotaulius hostilis
Hesperophylax designatus
Onocosmoecus unicolor
Limnephilus sp.
Unidentified genera
White median stripe, gills all single
F-Leptoceridae
Ceraclea excisa
49
Collection Location 1
2, 4-7, 10-14, 16
5, 16
16
13, 16
2
15, 16
13, 16
5
5, 13
5, 12, 16
16
13
12
9
2, 3, 8, 9, 16
2, 12-14
1
5
2-7, 9-16
2
6
9
Figure 24 (Continued). Macroinvertebrates collected
in June 1977 by HAPORA, Inc., by site.
Taxa
F-Empididae
Wiedomannia sp. (tentative)
Undetermined genus
F-Tipulidae
Tipula sp.
F-Simuliidae (diversity not considered)
F-Tabanidae
Tabanus sp. (coastal marsh only)
O-Ephemeroptera
F-Ephemerellidae
Ephemerella (Drunella) doddsi
E. inermis
F-Baetidae
Baetis sp. (two tails)
Baetis sp. (three tails)
Baetis sp.
F-Heptageniidae
Epeorus (Ironopsis) sp.
Cinygma sp.
Cinygmula sp.
F-Siphlonuridae
Ameletus validus
O-Hemiptera (true bugs)
F-Corixidae
F-Salididae
Soldula sp.
O-Odonata (dragonflies and damselflies)
F-Aeshnidae
Aeshna juncea
O-Plecoptera (stoneflies)
F-Pteronarcidae
Pteronarcella badia
F-Perlidae
Alloperla sp.
50
Collection Location 1
11
16
16
4
2, 13, 16
1
6, 13, 16
2, 5, 6, 7, 10, 13-15
11, 13, 15, 16
2, 4-6, 10-14
3
16
11
10, 12, 13, 16
5, 16
16
15
1
4, 5
7, 11-13
5, 6, 10-12, 14, 15
..
..oil
....
.... -.....
....
.....
.,."
..
..
..
-.. ..
...
--
--
,.
-
--
-
-
--
---
II1II
-
II1II
-..
...
....
lUI
....
Figure 24 (Continued). Macroinvertebrates collected
in June 1977 by WAPORA, Inc., by site.
Taxa
F-Lepidostomatidae
Lepidostoma roafi
F-Brachycentridae
Brachycentrus americanus
P-Mollusca
C-Gastropoda (snails)
Stagnicola sp. (heavy bodied)
Stagnicola sp. (slender bodied)
Gyraulus sp.
C-Pelecypoda (clams)
F-Unionidae
Anodonta imbecilis
F-Sphaeriidae
Sphaerium sp.
1 . SHe Key
1 -Kenai River marshes near mouth
2 -Beaver Creek at Sterling Highway
Collection Location 1
12
2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 10, 12-15
9
9, 10
2, 3, 5, 9, 10
10
2
3 -Kenai River between Moose River and Soldotna Creek
4 -Slikok Creek at Kasilof Road
5 -Soldotna Creek at Sterling Highway
6 -Kenai River at Soldotna Campground
7 -Funny River
8 -Kenai River between Beaver Creek and Soldotna Creek
9 -Moose River
10 -Kenai River at Naptown rapids
11 -Killey River at mouth
12 -Hidden Creek at road to Skilak Lake Campground
13 -Russian River
14 -Kenai River below mouth of Russian River
15 -Juneau Creek at mouth
16 -Cooper Creek approximately one-quarter mile above mouth
Source: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 1978 .
51
Figure 25. Invertebrates found in Vagt Lake and tributaries,
June 1972, by the U.S. Forest Service.
Invertebrates
Stone Flies -Plecoptera
Blackflies -Diptera simuliidae
Mayflies -Ephemeroptera
Flatworm -Planaria
Freshwater Shrimp -Gammarus
Water Boatman -Hemiptera corixidae
Water Strider -Hemiptera gerridae
Midge Larvae -Diptera chironomidae
Mosquito -Diptera culicidae
Caddis Flies -Trichoptera brachycentrus
Whirligig Beetles -Coleoptera gyrinidae
Snails -Mollusca gastropoda
1 Abundance
Average
Rich
Average
Average
Very Few
Few
Few
Rich
Average
Average
Few
Few
lAbundance descriptors are reported as found in original report.
Source: Howse 1972.
52
..
• •
.. "
...
.. "
"",
.'
...
.. '
...
... ..
....
IlWi
...
... ..
.... ..
-..
' . .. -... ..
f I I I I I I j I I I ! I 1 II • I I 1 I j I • I I i
Figure 26. Identification and enumeration of zooplankton from Grant Lake.
Organisms/m3
October 1981 March 1982 June 1982 August 1982
Lmver Upper Lower Upper Lower Upper Lower Upper
Taxa Basin Basin Basin Basin Basin Basin Basin Basin
Eucopepoda (copepods)
Cyclopoida 1,831 1,197 1,165 761 1,2l4 2,738 4,225 7,859
t-:auplii 143 327 169 86
Cladocera (water fleas) 14
Rotatoria (rotifers)
Kellicottia 183 2,606 109 211 1,738 1,518 845 3,211
l/l ~-----w ~lanchna 296 296 71 119 338 10,563
Figure 27. Identification and enumeration of benthic
organisms from Grant Lake.
or~anisms/m2
October 1981 June 1982
Lower Upper Lower Upper
Basin Basin Basin Basin
TAXA
Diptera
Chironomidae (midges) 201 678 488 430
Plecoptera (stone flies) 14
Trichoptera (caddis -flies) 7 100 14
Oligochaeta (aquatic worms) 21 76 86 473
Nematoda (round worms) 14 14
Hirudinea (leeches) 14
Bivalvia (clams) 36 402 43
Gastropoda (snails) 7 158 14
Gammaridae (scuds) 14
54
Ilil
..~
.. ,
."
August 1982
Lower Upper
Basin Basin ...
..
..
431 775
••
65
215 473
43
129 ...
65 43 ..
.. " -... ,
...
II'
... ,
...
-
-..
• -
• -
•
-
• -..
--
-----
• -
• -• --
---------
Bottom fauna collected from Grant Lake by AEIDC in October 1981
and June and August 1982 by dredging and screening are identified and
enumerated in Figure 27. Samples collected during these surveys
contained relatively few insects and showed little diversity, which is
typical for cold-water, glacier-fed systems with small littoral zones .
The most common groups were chironomids, oligochaetes and bivalves.
These organisms are not always readily available to fish, which
suggesting that Grant Lake, especially the upper basin, would not
provide the most suitable habitat for adult insectivorous fish like
grayling but may have sufficient plankton populations to support
juvenile salmonids.
Adul t mayflies, black flies , caddis flies, and crane flies were
seen near the-lake, and caddis larvae and water boatmen were observed
in fish minnow traps.
Bottom fauna collected by AEIDC in October 1981 and March, May,
and August 1982 from Grant Creek are identified and enumerated in
Figure 28. Samples collected during these surveys showed limited
diversity, which is common in cold-water, glacier-fed streams of
Alaska and is consistent with other area-wide observations (J. Koe-
nigs, pers. comm.). The most common organisms were chironomids.
Grant Creek also had sUfficient numbers of mayflies and stone flies,
which, along with the larger midge population, could support both
juvenile and adult fish populations.
Bottom fauna collected byAEIDC in October 1981 from Vagt Creek
are identified and enumerated in Figure 29. Samples collected from
Vagt. Creek showed the most diversity of the locations sampled. This
would be expected as Vagt Creek is not glacial or as cold as the other
project area systems. Chironomids, stone flies, and freshwater clams
were the most abundant taxa.
Bottom fauna collected by AEIDC in October 1981 and June and
August 1982 from Falls Creek are identified and enumerated in Fig-
ure 30. These samples were nearly devoid of invertebrate life. Lower
Falls Creek appears to be the least productive system surveyed in the
project area.
55
Figure 28. Identification and enumeration of benthic
organisms from Grant Creek.
Organisms!m2
October 1981 March 1982 May 1982 August 1982
TAXA
Diptera
Chironomidae (midges)
Empididae (dance flies)
Simuliidae (blackflies)
Ephemeroptera (mayflies)
Plecoptera (stone flies)
Trichoptera (caddis flies)
Coleoptera (beetles)
Oligochaeta (aquatic worms)
Hirudinea (leeches)
Bivalvia (clams)
Hydracarina (water mites)
Corixidae (water boatman)
6,677
11
162
183
11
124
6
56
7,457
11
156
102
22
6
16
(,
2,387
7
297
48
7
4
11
7
271
7
7
3,296
27
11
130
86
5
49
..
••
" ,I
....
.. '
..
tIi. .. \
-.. ..
... -...
-... -... ---... -....
• ..
.. -..
-
-..
-
-..
-..
-..
-..
-,.-----..
-..
...
Figure 29. Identification and enumeration of benthic
organisms from Vagt Creek.
TAXA
Diptera
Chironomidae (midges)
Simuliidae (blackflies)
Heleidae (biting midges)
Rhagionidae (snipe flies)
Ephemeroptera (mayflies)
Plecoptera (stone flies)
Trichoptera (caddis flies)
Oligo chaeta (aquatic worms)
Bivalvia (clams)
Gastropods (snails)
Garnrnaridae (scuds)
Homoptera (leaf hoppers)
57
Organisms/m2
October 1981
194
11
11
75
54
172
43
118
140
11
22
11
Figure 30. Identification and enumeration of benthic
organisms from Falls Creek.
Organisms/m2
October 1981 June 1982 August 1982
TAXA
Diptera
Chironomidae (midges)
Empididae (dance flies)
Simuliidae (blackflies)
Ephemeroptera (mayflies)
Plecoptera (stone flies)
Trichoptera (caddis flies)
Coleoptera (beetles)
Homoptera (leaf hoppers)
58
27
6
59
11
11
76
27
11
38
313
17
5
5
..
•••
....
• •
••
...
...
.'
.. ' .,
'I'
Mi" ., ., .
••
.. ,
...
...
... . "
.' .. '
.' ..
• ...
.., ..
-
-
·81
---..
---• -• -
• -------
• --
-
-
FISHERIES RESOURCES
INTRODUCTION
The Grant Lake hydroelectric project would affect two aquatic
systems: the Grant Lake and Grant Creek drainage and the Falls Creek
drainage. A third system, Vagt Creek and Lake, was examined during
the early phase of study (autumn and winter), but due to realignment
of project features (Ebasco Service, Inc. 1982) this drainage no
longer was considered part of the project area, and no further study
of it was conducted.
Grant Creek and Falls Creek provide habitat for several species
of salmonids which contribute to the fishery in the Kenai River
drainage (Figure 31). Twenty-one species of fish have been reported
in the Kenai River drainage (Figure 32). The Kenai River is one of
the most important upper Cook Inlet systems in terms of habitat for
reproduction of anadromous fish. These include five species of
Pacific salmon, Dolly Varden char, and eu1achon. Historical sport and
commercial harvest data
presented in Figure 33.
for chinook salmon in the Kenai River are
Sport harvest data for other anadromous sal-
monids are presented in Figure 34. Available Cook Inlet commercial
harvest data for other anadromous salmonids does not adequately
reflect the Kenai River portion and it is therefore not presented.
The sport and commercial fishery for salmon is a major component of
the Kenai area economy.
The following discussion of the aquatic systems affected by the
proposed project begins with a brief geographic description of project
waters, followed by species accounts of the aquatic resources found in
project waters. A separate chapter (pp. 190) discusses the signifi-
cance of these resources.
Grant Lake
The two basins of Grant Lake are surrounded by precipitous moun-
tains, and the shoreline in most areas is equally precipitous with
bedrock outcroppings interspersed with gravel beaches. Both basins
are deep and appear to have relatively uniform bottoms covered with
deposits of thick clay and silt. Shoreline vegetation consists of
59
Figure 31.
--
, I " , ! • .. • ..
Kenai River drainage.
• '!!
~-, ; .... " .... ; ,~ t
I l , :
,>" , , ,
'---'
'" '" . , ii
11
.
• · · ~"~ ...... .... ~~'-~·«I
\ ~ T'.ite~1!1I' I \ I ..... I
• ..
\,'~\..... I
~ . I u~~ • ~ I
;;; ii ,.. • : i
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I ,-, ,
I
; J i
-
•
---
• -
• -
• --------
------..
-..
-
Figure 32. Fish species reported to occur in the 1
Kenai River system, by specific location.
Species Collection Location2
Arctic lamprey (Lampetra japonica)
Mainstem
Kenai
none
l-S
l-S
Selected
perennial
tributaries
6-8
6-11,
10-11,
lS-20
13-1S,
*king (chinook) salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha)
*sockeye (red) salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka)
*silver (coho) salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) l-S all except 12
chum (dog) salmon (Oncorhynchus keta) 1,2 none
pink (humpback) salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha)
*rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri)
1-5 6, 7, 9, 10,
*Dolly Varden (Salvelinus malma)
northern pike (Esox lucius)
lake trout (Sal~nus namaycush)
eulachon (Thaleichthys pacificus)
longfin smelt (Spirinchus thaleichthys)
sculpin (Cottus sp.)
2-15
l-S
none
2-5
1,2
1,2
2-5
all except
all except
8
19
none
none
all
*slimy sculpin (Cottus cognatus) 2-4 7-10, 13,
*coastrange sculpin (Cottus aleuticus)
staghorn sculpin (Leptocottus armatus)
*round whitefish (Prosopium cylindracum)
*threespine stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus)
ninespine stickleback (Pungitius pungitius)
Pacific herring (Clupea harengus pallasi)
starry flounder (Platichthys stellatus)
longnose sucker (Catostomus catostomus)
*Arctic grayling (Thymallus arcticus)
2,4
1
2-5
l-S
none
1 only
1 only
none
3-5
9, 13
none
none
all
6-8
none
none
14
21
(including Kenai
Lake to Snow River)
1. Adapted from Kenai River Review, 1978, U.S. Department of the Army,
Alaska District Corps of Engineers.
2. Location (refer to Figure 31).
1. Intertidal
2. Lower Kenai (intertidal to Skilak Lake)
3 . Skilak Lake
4. Upper Kenai (Skilak Lake to Kenai Lake)
5. Kenai Lake
6. Beaver Creek
7. Slikok Creek
8. Soldotna Creek
9. Funny River
10. Moose River
11. Killey River
* Species observed to date in project waters.
61
12. King County Creek
13. Hidden Creek
14. Jean Creek
15. Russian River
16. Cooper Creek
17. Juneau Creek
18. Quartz Creek
19. Trail Creek
20. Ptarmigan Creek
21. Snow River
12
12
15,
17-21
15
16
0\
N
, I , ,
Figure 33. Sport and commercial harvest of chinook salmon bound principally
for the Kenai River, 1947-1981.
Early Run Harvest Late Run Harvest
Year Sport Commercial Total Sport 1 Commercial Total Sport
1974 1,685 167 1,852 3,325 5,404 8,729 5,010
1975 615 181 796 2,700 3,497 6,197 3,315
1976 1,554 876 2,430 5,859 7,361 13,220 7,413
1977 2,173 1,058 3,231 5,514 7,613 13,127 7,697
1978 1,542 858 2,400 8,271 10,786 19,057 9,813
1979 3,661 1,073 4,734 5,798 7,188 12,986 9,459
1980 1,946 663 3,130 4,355 8,055 12,410 6,301
1981 4,525 946 5,471 5,455 7,696 13,151 9,980
1982 2 5,466 1,100 6,566 4,810 11,500 16,310 10,276
Mean 2,574 769 3,401 5,120 7,677 12,799 7,696
1. Includes the sport harvest at the mouth of Deep Creek
2. 1982 data are preliminary
Source: Hammerstrom 1980; S. Hammerstrom, pers. comm.
, . , , f • , , • I , I I , .
"
Total Harvest
Commercial
ii
"
5,571
3,678
8,237
8,671
11,644
8,261
8,718
8,642
12,600
8,451
i •
'" t
Total
10,581
6,993
15,650
16,358
21,457
I
I'
17,720
15,540
18,622
22,876
16,200
; i i I
I i i
0"-w
i
Year
1976
1977
1978
1979
1980
1981
Mean 3
l.
i • i I i , . • I I • • I l I I I
Effort
man-days
80,506
102,203
118,307
126,585
103,460
178,716
118,226
Figure 34. Sport harvest of salmon (excluding chinook)
in the Kenai River, 1976-1980.
Sockeye Coho Pink Rainbow
salmon 1 salmon salmon trout
719 13,808 21,443 1,797
1,436 10,056 100 2,474
2,180 11,585 17,011 3,118
1,907 14,479 ------3,100
1,862 25,255 7,415 2 1,541
19,721 20,827 86 18,685*
3,478 12,001 N/A 3,839
• j
Dolly
Varden
4,957
8,058
11,695
11,764
5,965
34,862
9,663
Sockeye salmon estimates do not include an estimate for the shore harvest outside the creel
census area. The creel census area includes two mainstem Kenai River segments, one below
Soldotna, one below Skilak Lake.
Total
harvest
42,724
22,124
45,589
39,545
42,038
94,181
35,775
2. Pink salmon estimates are only valid for the creel census area, and significant harvest occurs
below the creel census area.
3. 1982 data have not been summarized (S. Hammerstrom, pers. comm.).
Source: Hammerstrom 1982.
*Creel census data for the years 1976-1980 reflect harvests below Skilak Lake only.
1981 data reflects system-wide harvests.
lowbush cranberry, ferns, alders, spruce, hemlock, and a few cotton-
woods near inlet stream deltas. The shoreline is littered with
floating and sunken organic debris and patches of thick macrophyte
growth in the few littoral areas. The upper basin is more turbid than
the lower, presumably because of a shallow set of narrows separated by
an island that divides the basins and precludes complete mixing of
their waters. Several large log jams have collected above shore areas
that are to the lee of the normal wind patterns as well as at the toe
of several large avalanche slopes and at the shallow narrows sepa-
rating the basins. The water surface of the lake appears to fluctuate
moderately, probably rising to its highest during summer runoff and
falling to a low point in late winter. The distance from the lake
surface to the high water mark was approximately six feet in October
1981; however, it was at or above this mark in August 1982.
Numerous short streams originate in the nearly vertical mountains
surrounding much of the lake. Three glacial streams also enter the
lake, as do two moderately turbid streams at the upper end of the
upper basin.
Previous investigations (USFWS 1961) indicated that Grant Lake
supports a small population of coastrange sculpin and dense popu-
lations of threespine stickleback. Falls in the outlet stream
preclude inmigration of other fish species, and none was found during
our sampling. Our investigations have confirmed the presence of
stickleback and sculpin in both basins of the lake. No fish were
found in any of the inlet streams, and no other species of fish was
taken in the lake.
The turbidity and cold water of Grant Lake and its tributaries
appear to limit their potential as fisheries habitat for most game
£ish. However, the lake may prove to be a suitable nursery area for
planktivorous species, such as juvenile sockeye salmon. ADF&G has
been studying Kenai drainage lakes for five years to locate suitable
sockeye nursery areas for juveniles produced from the Trail Lake
Hatchery (currently beginning its first year of operation). In 1981
ADF&G sampled Grant Lake, and preliminary indications are that it has
the second highest plankton concentrations of the lakes ADF&G tested
on the Kenai Peninsula. ADF&G's data also indicated a deeper light
64
"'"
••
....
"'"
.,.
...
..
....
.... ..
.,
-
..
• .,
0lil,
---
-
----------
-
--
" ... ..
----
penetration in the lower basin than expected (L. Flagg, pers. comm.).
Pathology investigations have confirmed the presence of IHN virus in
several proposed sockeye juvenile nursery lakes in the Kenai drainage.
Sockeye spawners in Grant Creek have not been examined for the
presence of IHN virus, but they do not currently utilize Grant Lake as
a nursery area. Grant Lake waters should, therefore, present no viral
danger to artificially cultured fish (J. Sullivan, pers. comm.).
Grant Creek
Previous ADF&G investigations of Grant Creek focused on its use
by salmon species as a spawning stream. All investigators have noted
that the glacial turbidity and turbulence of the creek hampers accu-
rate surveying and spawner enumeration. From its origin in Grant
Lake, it flows approximately one mile in a southwesterly direction and
discharges into the isthmus between upper and lower Trail Lake. In
the upper section it courses over three substantial waterfalls,
through a rocky gorge, and over large rubble and boulders. The lower
section is somewhat less turbulent, having fewer boulders and more
frequent gravel shoals, although the gradient of the lower D.5-mile
segment is still fairly steep. The width of the stream is approxi-
mately 40 to 70 feet. Cover for juvenile fish is available along
stream margins and in backwaters, deep pools, and in a few small side
channels that offer lower velocities during low flows. Interstitial
space among cobbles and coarse gravels also provides cover for small
fish.
Chinook and sockeye salmon spawn in Grant Creek. Figure 35
presents recorded peak escapement counts for the years 1952-82. These
counts are probably low due to the turbidity which limits accurate
vi'sual estimates. Grant Creek may also be used for spawning and is
definitely used as a nursery habitat by coho salmon, Dolly Varden,
rainbow trout, and coastrange sculpin. Grant Creek is in the upper
portion of the Kenai drainage. Radio tag studies of chinook salmon
movement patterns by the usnls in the Kenai system indicate that
tributary spawners are early run fish that arrive in the Kenai
drainage between mid-May and early July (C. Burger, pers. comm.).
Previous investigators have concentrated their escapement surveys on
65
Year
1952
1953
1954
1957
1959
1961
1962
1963
1976
1977
1978
1979
1980
1981
Figure 35. Peak salmon escapement counts for
Grant Creek, 1952-1982.
Species
King Salmon Sockeye
Number of Spawners Number of
0 250
12 13
6 45
8 0
28 0
86 Total Salmon*
2 324
33 41
29 0
0 4
5 0
42 29
5 0
45 19
Salmon
Spawners
1982 46''<* 135**
Average 19 61
*Not included in averages.
**Source: AETDC 1982.
Source: Alaska Department of fish and Game 1952-1981.
66
'''''
••
.. ...
....
...
....
.. '
.'
...
...
.' -
-
--
• -
...
-
-
... ,
"" --..
-
....
••
••
••
Grant Creek in mid-August and early September, indicating that a delay
of one to two months occurs between entry into the Kenai River and the
arrival of chinook spawners at Grant Creek. Sockeye salmon also
appear to enter Grant Creek almost concurrent with the chinook run.
USFWS periodically sampled Grant Creek with minnow traps from
July 1959 through January 1961 (USFWS 1961). Captured species
included king salmon, coho salmon, Dolly Varden, and coastrange
sculpin (Figure 36). USFWS (1961) also reported that sport fishing
pressure was light due to the turbidity and distance of the stream
from the highway. This report indicated that anglers usually caught
one to five fish and that there was an occasional take of 10 to 15;
Dolly Varden represented the bulk of the catch, but a few rainbows
were also taken. There are no reliable estimates of current fishing
effort in Grant Creek waters.
Creel census information was collected by ADF&G at the mouth of
Grant Creek only during 1964 (Figure 37). Our personnel talked with
two local residents who were fishing in Trail River at the mouth of
Grant Creek in August 1982. They caught two small Dolly Varden and
one small rainbow trout in about an hour. No round whitefish have
been reported in the literature except in a 1964 creel census, when
the Seward ADF&G biologist caught one specimen while fishing (T. Mc-
Henry, pers. comm.).
Moose Pass area residents estimated that 500 to 600 man-days of
fishing occur on Grant Creek each year, primarily for Dolly Varden and
rainbow trout. A well-established trail exists along both banks of
the creek from the mouth to the gorge. Residents also reported that
the population of Dolly Varden has dropped considerably over the
years. Grant Creek is closed to sport fishing for salmon by ADF&.G
regulations, although evidence of illegal fishing was discovered by
AEIDC. McHenry (pers. comm.) indicated that actual fishing pressure
is probably much lower than local residents estimates due to access
difficulty .
An examination of the II-year streamflow data (Figure 38) from
the USGS gage on Grant Creek indicated that June through August are
the months of highest flow and that discharge is still fairly high
during September through November. High stream discharges during peak
67
Figure 36. Fish species collected by minnow trap by USFWS in
Grant Creek, July 1959 through January 1961.
SEecies
King Coho Dolly
Month salmon salmon Varden Sculpin
January X
February X X
March X
April X X
May No sampling
June X X X
July X X X
August X X X X
September X X
October X X X
November X X
December No sampling
Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1961.
68
lOb
f.
...
'11 Ii
,,111,-
111'''''
.,.
.~'"
.,.
.' .' ..
....
-
., . . , -
....
IIIIt -..
...
'.
..
.. ..
-..
.....
-
-
... -...
...
III.
-
-,--.---..
Date
5/21/64
6/4/64
6/9/64
Figure 37. Creel census conducted at the mouth
of Grant Creek by ADF&G 1964.
No. of
anglers
2
3
Species
RHF
RB
DV
RWF
RB
No. of Catch per
fish effort
1 0.25 per hour
3
3 0.67 per hour
1
2 0.26 per hour
Source: McHenry, pers. camm. 1981.
69
Mean
Percent
Figure 38. Monthly and annual mean discharge (cfs)
at the USGS gage on Grant Creek.
Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Annual
184 189 56 31 23 20 31 152 448 518 413 307 198
8 5 2 1 1 1 1 7 20 23 18 13
Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1961.
70
'!II
.. ..
...'
.. '
... ..
•
• .. .. .. -.... ' .. . , .. --•• --
•
II1II
ijitj
..
....
-
•
.... -... ..
-
-
-
-• -
-
-..
--
-------
spawning activity complicate spawner identification and enumeration.
During the lower flows of October 1981, Grant Creek was still turbid,
swift, and deep enough to prevent crossing on foot and to hamper ob-
servation.
Falls Creek
Falls Creek is a clear, cold stream that drains the precipitous
mountains between the Ptarmigan and Grant Creek watersheds. Eight
miles long, it is tributary to the Trail River below Lower Trail Lake .
An inactive placer mine is located approximately three miles upstream
from the mouth. A series of falls and cascades approximately one mile
from the mouth prevents fish passage above that point. An active gold
~
mine is located just east of the highway and railroad trestle. Three
to four acres adjacent to the active channel in the lower 0.5 miles
are covered with tailings, and 100 yards of the streambed in this area
have been relocated.
The lower mile of Falls Creek appears to provide limited suitable
habitat for salmon spawning. Investigations by USFWS in 1959 and 1960
indicated that no adult salmon use the stream; however, local resi-
dents and the Seward ADF&G biologist reported (T. McHenry, pers.
corom.) that salmon may use the lower 100 feet of Falls Creek. Cold
water temperatures may limit its production potential.
USFWS also sampled Falls Creek with minnow traps from June to
November 1959. Figure 39 gives the results of that effort. They
noted that although traps were set from the mouth to approximately one
mile upstream, all king salmon juveniles were taken from the lower
200 yards of the stream .
We observed no salmon utilization of Falls Creek during our
investigations.
Vagt Lake and Creek
Vagt Lake is on a bench above Lower Trail Lake at an elevation of
approximately five hundred and seventy-five feet. It has one major
inlet entering from the the southeast and an outlet which is a tri-
butary to Lower Trail Lake. Vagt Lake and Creek system is managed by
ADF&G and the Chugach National Forest as a recreational fishery. A
71
Figure 39. Species taken by the USFWS using minnow traps
in Falls Creek, June through November 1959.
Species
Dolly
Month
King
salmon Varden Sculpin
June
July
August
September
October
November
x
X
X
Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1961.
72
X
X
X X
X
X
r •
...
.. .. '
.-
.. "
"":
.....
.. ~
....
''I''
iII'!"
.' ... ..
• ..
.... '
....
....
.... -,-
'M' ..
..... ' ..
II. .. ...
....
-
•• -
-..
-.. -..
--
-
-
-
-
maintained trail to the lake provides hiking access for sport fisher-
men. The trail begins at the south end of Lower Trail Lake. Another
trail follows the outlet stream from its mouth to the lake.
The lake provides excellent habitat for the maintenance of fish
popula tions , although spawning areas are minimal. There are small
areas of sui table gravel in the inlet stream but stocking by ADF&G
maintains the sport fish population. In 1963 ADF&G stocked 49 Arctic
grayling adults in Vagt Lake and in 1965 added 170 grayling adults.
In 1972 sampling of the lake by ADF&G determined the presence of resi-
dent populations of rainbow trout, Dolly Varden, sculpin, and numerous
stickleback; however, no grayling were captured in the system.
Subsequent to those investigations a trickle-type dam was con-
structed by ADF&G and USFS at the lake outlet to restrict outmigration
of stocked fish . Inmigration from lower Trail Lake is effectively
restricted by a falls approximately sixty feet above the mouth of the
creek. The lake was rehabilitated by ADF&G with rotenone in 1973 and
stocked with 26,200 rainbow trout in 1974. This stocking effort was
successful and produced good sport fishing opportunity for rainbow
trout. ADF&G supplemented this fishery in July 1980, stocking it with
8,600 rainbows (L. Larsen, pers. comm.).
The total length of the outlet stream (Vagt Creek) is about
fifteen hundred feet. The upper section of the creek has a moderate
gradient, stable bank structure and an adequate pool:riffle ratio for
fish production (75%: 25%) (Howse 1972). There is cover available in
the debris jams and along the grassy undercut banks, but there is
little spawning gravel available. The lower section is in a narrow
bedrock canyon with steeper gradient and fewer areas of cover.
We sampled Vagt Creek with minnow traps and a backpack electro-
shocker in October 1981. Minnow trapping was unproductive in the
stream segment above the falls. In the lower 30 yards of the stream
below the falls, one juvenile coho salmon (78 mm) was trapped after an
eight-hour set. Electroshocking the entire creek above the falls
produced a total of six small rainbow trout (100 to 160 mm). Shocking
below the falls resulted in the capture of seven cohos (58 to 71 mm) ,
one rainbow trout (44 mm), and one sculpin.
During the winter of 1982, Vagt Creek was found to be completely
73
frozen, with a minimal flow below the ice and large aufeis areas at
the mouth and at several locations midway between the mouth and the
outlet of Vagt Lake.
Subsequent to these investigations, it was determined that the
preferred plan developed by Ebasco would have no impact on Vagt Lake
or Creek. As a result, we conducted no further investigations on the
Vagt Creek basin.
FISHERIES INVESTIGATIONS
The biological characteristic of the Kenai River drainage that is
of most current interest to man is its use as a spawning and rearing
area by salmon. Information pertaining directly to the aquatic biota
of the watershed, therefore, is limited primarily to that which re-
lates directly to salmon. Previous investigations of the waters that
will be impacted by the Grant Lake hydroelectric project have also
focused on salmon use. Figure 40 illustrates some life history
features of the three species of salmon known or suspected to utilize
Grant Creek and Falls Creek for spawning.
We began fisheries investigations in October 1981 to verify and
expand the information pertaining to the utilization of these systems
by salmon and other species. The following provides life history
information as well as the habitat utilization characteristics of the
species found in the project waters.
King (Chinook) Salmon
King salmon enter the Kenai system in two distinct runs. The
first begins in late May, peaks in mid-June, and ends in early July.
The second run begins in early July, peaks in late July, and ends by
mid-August. Radio tagging experiments conducted by USFWS in the past
three years indicated that early run fish spawn exclusively in tribu-
tary systems of the Kenai, and late run fish spawn exclusively in the
mainstem Kenai (C. Burger, pers. comm.). Previous investigations have
concentrated on escapement surveys on Grant Creek in August and early
september. Grant Creek fish are early run fish that arrive in the
Kenai between mid-May and early July. This indicates a delay of one
74
·..,
.!II
..
....
-...
l1li,
-..
.,
•
"'" ..
-..
.-..
..
..
-
• -
• -
• -
---
• -
..
.---..
--
to two months between entry into the Kenai River and arrival at the
upper end of the Kenai drainage at Grant Creek.
King salmon prefer to spawn in deeper water and will utilize
substrate of larger-size particles for redds than other species of
salmon. Both males and females are aggressive on the spawning
grounds. Each female may be attended by several males but attempts to
spawn only with the dominant male. Smaller males may dart into the
redd and deposit sperm as the eggs are released. After spawning, the
female digs at the upstream end of the nest and covers the eggs with
gravel. The females may dig more than one redd and spawn with more
than one male. Fecundity varies with the size of the female, but the
average for early run Kenai fish is 9,000 eggs/female and 12,000
eggs/female for late run fish (W. Heard, pers. comm.).
Fertilized eggs hatch the following spring, and the alevins spend
two to three weeks in the gravel before emerging as free-swimming fry.
Most juvenile kings will spend one year in fresh water before mi-
grating to sea in late June. During this period, they feed chiefly on
terrestrial insects, chironomids, corixids, caddis flies, mites,
spiders, aphids, small crustaceans--virtually anything available to
them, although they do not appear to eat fishes during their fresh-
water life. Adults return after two to six years at sea. An esti-
mated 50,000 kings spawn in the Kenai River drainage annually.
Several Kenai River tributary systems support escapements of several
thousand kings; however, upstream tributaries average escapements of
50 to 200 fish (C. Burger, pers. comm.).
King salmon utilize Grant Creek for spawning and rearing.
Previous investigators (USFWS, 1961) have found rearing kings in Grant
Creek in all months except March and May (Figure 36). Recorded peak
,spawner escapement counts for the years 1952 through 1982 are pre-
sented in Figure 36. The average peak count of spawning kings during
this period is 19; however, the run fluctuates year to year. The
largest number recorded was 46 in 1928. Observation conditions in
1982 were excellent. Some previous counts may have been low due to
the poor observation conditions and high flows that are cornmon in
August Figure 38). No kings were recorded in the 1952 and 1977
surveys .
75
I I , II
Figure 40. Generalized, Kenai River life history information for Pacific
salmon known or suspected to spawn in Grant Creek.
Time spent in
fresh water after Average weight
emergence from Time spent Age at of adults
Average eggs
per female S p ecies 10f
salmon gravel at sea spawning early run late run early run late run
King salmon 3-12 months 1-6 years 3-7 30.0
Red salmon 12-36 months 1-4 years 3-6 5.0
Silver salmon 12-36 months 1 year 3-4 7.9
1. Exceptions to these general characteristics occur frequently.
Source:
i •
Merrell 1970.
C. Burger, pers. comm.
S. Hammerstrom, pers. comm.
K. Tarbox, pers. comm.
, , i I f I t , I , f I If I , .
lbs 37.0 lbs 9,000 12,000
lbs 7.0 lbs 3,700 3,500
lbs 10.2 lbs 3,700 4,100
J !' I .
..
-
---
•
41.
---
• -• ---
-----,---
----
Previous investigators found rearing king salmon in Falls Creek
during fall (Figure 39) but found no adult spawners using the creek.
Local residents reported that the lower 100 feet at the outlet may
have been utilized by spawning salmon in past years. We found no
utilization of Falls Creek by king salmon during its investigations in
1981 and 1982. This may be the result of increased placer mining
activity in the lower segment of the Creek.
Our field activities began in October 1981, too late for spawner
enumeration~ however, we observed king salmon in spawning coloration
during an earlier (August 1981) preliminary field trip. At that time
Grant Creek was at an extremely high stage, and turbid water condi-
tions precluded an accurate enumeration of spawners. As noted
previously (Figure 38), the months of highest flow in Grant Creek are
from June through August, and flows remain fairly high until November.
These high discharges during peak spawning activity have hampered
previous attempts at spawner identification and enumeration.
During the lower flows of October 1981, Grant Creek remained
swift, turbid, and deep enough to preclude crossing on foot. Careful
observation as well as electroshocking and angling did not result in
the discovery of any adult king salmon during at this time; however,
ten partially decomposed carcasses were counted from the mouth upriver
to the gorge. ADF&G enumerated 45 kings during their survey in August
1981 (Figure 35).
During March 1982 the low flows in Grant Creek enabled a detailed
evaluation of the availability of the spawning gravel in Grant Creek.
The overall nature of the substrate materials in Grant Creek is deter-
mined partially by the steep gradient and generally high velocities of
the creek, which tend to wash smaller spawning materials out of the
system. Substrate materials are very coarse throughout the entire
length of the creek, ranging in size from small to large cobbles (64
to 250 mrn) up to a mixture of large cobbles and very large boulders
(250 mrn and larger) near the mouth of the gorge. Very few patches of
gravel (2 to 64 mrn) are present in any river segment, and many of
these are armored with medium to coarse cobbles. The areas that
contain substrates that offer better than average potential for sal-
monid spawning, as determined by a subjective visual evaluation during
77
March 1982, are depicted in Figure 41. The margins of the creek were
dewatered in March; however, some streamflow does occur through margin
substrates in many locations. There is extensive flow beneath the
bank ice shelves in many locations as well as many aufeis beds, indi-
cating a potential contribution of groundwater to winter flow.
During early August 1982, we surveyed Grant Creek for spawning
kings. We counted a total of 12 in study areas 1, 2, and 3 (Fig-
ure 4). These adults had apparently recently entered the system and
were moving about a great deal from area to area, and probably were in
the process of selecting spawning areas. Only one female in study
area 1 seemed to hold position throughout the survey period. No
active spawning activity was observed in early August. Several of the
deep pools may have held additional unobserved king adults; however,
using an electroshocker in one such area produced no additional fish.
During the third week of August, 1982, Grant Creek was resurveyed
for spawning acti vi ty and a total of 46 kings were recorded (Fig-
ure 42). Water conditions were nearly ideal for observation from the
river banks, except in deeper holes. Several pairs of kings were seen
in areas of fairly large substrate; however, they seemed to have no
difficulty digging through the top layer of cobbles to the medium
gravels below.
Figure 43 shows the results of investigations of the utilization
of Grant Creek by juvenile king salmon using minnow trap and electro-
shocker. A length/frequency histogram of king salmon juveniles caught
in minnow traps in Grant Creek is presented in Figure 44. A length/
frequency histogram of fish captured during the performance of the
bloc and removal exercise is presented in Appendix A, Exhibit 2.
It was apparent during the winter investigations that the
juvenile king salmon collected by electroshocker were primarily
utilizing habitat in the interstitial spaces of the large and medium
size cobble substrate. Grant Creek was open and flowing during
winter. Shelf ice forms along the margins of the creek, but no fish
were collected beneath it. Juveniles were collected only in the lower
two sampling areas of Grant Creek during March and May 1982. The only
individuals trapped in June were in the upper sampling areas. All
78
.""
.""
.'"
.. "
.. "
....
...
...
...
... .. ..
..
-..
-. .,.. -... ..
Oil
-..
..
-..
'-..
..
-..
-• -• -
iIIII
-
• --
-
-
--
-..
Figure 41. Principal physical characteristics which may influence
salmon spawning success in Grant Creek, 1982.1
1Medium to coarse gravels, or areas of such
gravel under an armor layer of cobble.
Small patches may also exist in other river
sections
.. : ... : '" : .... .... .... "" , '." .'." ...... '.
No surface flow observed
in March 1982
High-velocity rapids
Possible spawning gravels
Islands
79
•
I
Islands
Figure 42. Location of king salmon and red salmon spawning
activities, Grant Creek, August 1982.
King salmon spawners (indicates one or more individuals
-total observed = 46)
Red salmon spawners (indicates one or more individuals
-total observed = 135)
80
••
• !IIt
....
.. ..
III·
_ .
....
II!II'
...
..
....
..
l1li Figure 43. Grant Creek juvenile king salmon taken by minnow
trap and electroshocker, October 1981 -August 1982. -,.
-October March May June August
Location 1981 1982 1982 1982 1982
, ...
!III Minnow Tra:e:
.... Sample area 1 3 5 1 0 21
.-
Sample area 2 17 1 1 0 3 -.-Sample area 3 37 0 0 0 8
.-Samrle area 4 14 0 0 4 2
,.
-Total Fish 71 1 6 2 4 34 ..
Total Trap Hours 80 306 162 108 126
....
Catch Per Hour 0.89 0.02 0.01 0.04 0.27 ,.
,-Electroshocker: 21 6 79* ** *~'\ -
-l. Two additional juvenile kings (70 ~lUd 81 mm) were taken by angling.
*All fish were fry or alevins taken while performing the block and
removal methodology (Zippen 1958) . See Appendix B. .-
*>'<No electroshocker sampling conducted.
,.
----
• -81 -
00
N
, , i
28
OCTOBER 1981
18
16
MARCH 1982
14
rllZI 12
MAY 1982
10
&mmmJm 8
JtN: 1982
6
fXXXQXm
4
AUGUST 1982
2
S
Figure 44. Length/frequency histogram of king salmon juveniles taken
by minnow traps, Grant Creek, 1981-1982.*
-
-
-
-
-
-
r
f-
r
f-,
r-
f-
r-
r-
~
r-
r-
f-
r ~ ~ n
se 6S 1S 15 ag 85 9S
*Histogram of fish taken by electroshocker during the block and
removal exercise are summarized in Appendix B, Exhibit 2. LENGTH (u)
I , I , I r , f 1 ! ~ , ~ r , r ., ! J II " • ! . .. .! II
R
>95
• .. • '" j , • "
-..
-..
---
---
-
-
•
---..
---
l1li
--..
juveniles collected in June 1982 were larger than average (90 to
100 rom) •
During the performance of the block and removal population study
in May 1982 (Appendix B), king alevins were stimulated to leave the
gravel prematurely by the electroshocker. The presence of these fish
confirmed spawning activity and overwinter survival in the potential
spawning gravels previously delineated in sample area No. 1 (Fig-
ure 41).
During the fall 1982 trapping effort, juvenile king salmon were
found in all sampling areas but were most numerous in the lower and
mid-river segments. These juveniles generally exhibited a preference
for habitat that contained moderate velocity (1 to 2 fps), such as the
margin of the~ main channels. They also were present in areas of
generally high velocity, where large substrate or organic debris
provided cover and some relief from high velocities.
These data would indicate that the king salmon juveniles utilize
Grant Creek for rearing year round, although we suspect that some
individuals may leave the system to overwinter in Trail Lakes or
become very inactive during winter and seek interstitial habitat in
the coarse substrate of the stream. Some juvenile king salmon may
enter Grant Creek from Trail Lakes for opportunistic feeding, espe-
cially in the fall. At this time the water of Trail Lake becomes very
turbid compared to the waters of Grant Creek.
Sockeye (Red) Salmon
Sockeye salmon arrive in the Kenai system in two discrete runs.
The first run begins in mid-to late May and continues through late
June. The second begins in late June and continues through late
AUgust. Most sockeye runs occurring above Skilah Lake are lake-run
fish (C. Burger, pers. comm.). Sockeye prefer a spawning substrate of
fine gravel, and eggs are usually deposited in pockets overlying
larger gravel. Early run fish are estimated to average 3,700 eggs per
femaie, and late run spawners average 3,500 eggs per female. Hatching
occurs in 50 to 80 days, depending on water temperature. Newly
emerged fry migrate to lakes to rear and remain for one or two years
before migrating seaward.
83
Sockeye salmon are known to utilize Grant Creek for spawning.
The young presumably outmigrate to rear in the Trail Lake system. No
sockeye juveniles have been observed in Grant Creek. Figure 35
provides the recorded peak spawner escapement counts for the years
1952 through 1982. The average number of sockeye enumerated in peak
counts is 61; however, the run fluctuates greatly from year to year.
The largest number recorded was 324 in 1962. None was recorded in
counts in 1957, 1959, 1976, 1978, or 1980.
Some local residents have reported sockeye spawning in the lower
reaches of Falls Creek; however, USFWS studies in 1959 and 1960
indicated that no adult sockeyes were in the stream. No ADF&G
escapement surveys have been recorded. We found no evidence of
sockeye spawning in Falls Creek; however, 10 sockeye carcasses were
observed at low water along the banks of Trail River near the con-
fluence of Falls Creek in October 1981. No sockeye were enumerated in
August 1982 in this area due to the turbidity of the water.
Sockeye enter Grant Creek in August and early September. No
sockeye, live or dead, were observed by AEIDC in October of 1981.
During the third week of August of 1982, 135 sockeye were counted in
Grant Creek under good observation conditions. The majority were in
previously identified areas of potentially suitable gravel (Fig-
ure 41); however, several pairs were observed in areas of small
cobbles and had successfully dug redds through the cobbles to the
underlying gravels.
Coho (Silver) Salmon
Coho salmon enter the Kenai in two runs--the first beginning in
late July and continuing until mid-August, the second from mid-August
to December. Cohos prefer a substrate of medium-size gravel. Spawn-
ing behavior is very similar to that of the king salmon. It is esti-
mated that the fecundity of early run females is 3,700 eggs and that
fecundity of late run females, 4,100 eggs. Hatching occurs in 35 to
50 days, depending on water temperature. The alevins remain in the
gravel for two to three weeks and then emerge as free-swimming,
actively feeding fry. Some fry migrate immediately to sea, but most
remain in fresh water for one or two years.
84
......
....
...
. ..
....
.....
..
.'
.'
..
..
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.. --
WI -
-....
--
-
-
--
• ---
•
-
----
•
-
----
•
Coho salmon are known to utilize Grant Creek for rearing.
Previous investigators found juvenile cohos only in the time period
from August through October (Figure 36). No previous investigators
reported cohos spawning in Grant Creek, and no escapement data are
available.
The major food for juvenile cohos is terrestrial insects, espe-
cially diptera and hymenoptera. The diet may also include mites,
beetles, aphids, thrips, collembola, spiders, and perhaps zooplankton.
Most feeding is at the surface. Larger coho juveniles may often be
serious predators of young sockeye salmon (Roos 1960).
During October 1981 and again in August 1982 we actively searched
for evidence of coho spawning activity but found none. Some cohos
enter the Kenai system very late in the year and may not arrive to
spawn in Grant Creek until November and late December. No field
investigations were conducted during these months.
The results of investigations of the utilization of Grant Creek
by juvenile coho salmon using minnow trap and electroshocker appear in
Figure 45. A length/frequency histogram of juvenile cohos trapped in
Grant Creek is presented in Figure 46. A length/frequency histogram
of fish captured during the performance of the block and removal
exercise is presented in Appendix B, Exhibit 2.
Coho juveniles were less abundant than king salmon juveniles and
did not utilize as wide a range of habitat as did juvenile kings.
Juvenile cohos showed a preference for shallow water with low velocity
and an abundance of detrital cover. This type of habitat was general-
ly found only in the deep pools and backwater areas in the lower study
areas. Juvenile cohos appeared to be restricted to the lower three
study areas, and none was found in the uppermost study area. The
extremely small size (40 mm) of several of the coho juveniles trapped
in August 1982 (Figure 46) strongly suggests that cohos do spawn in
Grant Creek. These small fish generally do not venture far from their
natal areas, and the stretch of high velocity water near the mouth of
Grant Creek would pose a major impediment to the immigration of such
small fish.
These data would indicate that coho juvenile utilize Grant Creek
for rearing but are present in small numbers. Older, larger juvenile
85
Figure 45. Grant Creek juvenile coho salmon taken by minnow trap
and electroshocker, October 1981 -August 1982.
October March May June August
Location 1981 1982 1982 1982 1982
Minnow Trap:
Sample area 1 0 4 0 2 5
Sample area 2 0 0 0 0 6
Sample area 3 2 0 0 0 0
Sample area 4 0 0 0 0 0
Total Fish 2 4 o 2 11
Total Trap Hours 80 306 162 108 126
Catch Per Hour 0.03 0.01 o 0.02 0.09
Electroshocker: 8 o 11* ** **
*Taken while performing the block and removal methodology (Zippin 1958).
I See Appendix B.
**No electroshocker sampling conducted.
86
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...
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...
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, ....
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Q
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I i I I I I I I I I I I I • I I I • I • • j I j I j I • Ii.
19
OCTOBER 1981
8
MARCH 1982
rzzzl 6
MAY 1982
~ 4
JUNE 1982
~ 2
AUGUST 1982
NUMBER
-
-
f-
I--
f-
.....--
f-
I--
r-
49
Figure 46. Length/frequency histogram of coho salmon juveniles taken
by minnow traps, Grant Creek, 1981-1982.*
50 55 60 65 79 75 85 95
*Histogram of fish taken by electro shocker during the block and
removal exercise are summarized in Appendix B, Exhibit 2.
LENGTH <'111)
>105
I
cohos may be recruited to Grant Creek from the turbid waters of Trail
Lake during the late summer and fall or are progeny of Grant Creek
stocks.
Rainbow Trout
Rainbow trout begin to seek out shallow gravel riffles to spawn
during late winter or early spring when water temperatures begin to
increase. A redd is prepared in fine gravels by the female before she
releases from 200 to 8,000 eggs, depending on her size. Hatching
normally occurs from a few weeks to several months after spawning,
depending on water temperatures. Emergence occurs several weeks after
hatching. Fry are usually seen in groups sheltered along stream or
lake margins. Small trout feed mainly on crustaceans, plant material,
and aquatic insects until they are large enough to feed on other fish.
Rainbow trout are known to utilize Grant Creek for juvenile
rearing and adult foraging. No observations have been made of rainbow
spawning in Grant Creek; however, several adults were present in the
creek in May and June. Rainbows are actively sought by fishermen at
the mouth and in the upstream pools of Grant Creek.
The results of investigations of the utilization of Grant Creek
by juvenile rainbows using minnow traps and electroshocker are pre-
sented in Figure 47. A length/frequency histogram of rainbows trapped
in Grant Creek is presented in Figure 48. A length/frequency histo-
gram of fish captured during the performance of the capture of the
block and removal exercise is presented in Appendix B, Exhibit 2.
Though limited in number, juvenile rainbows seemed to be uniformly
distributed in all study areas in habitats ranging from shallow, slow
water to deep holes with moderate velocity. Like other salmonids,
rainbows are inactive in winter and most active in the fall months.
The small size of several of the rainbows (45-50 mm) taken in
October of 1981 suggests that rainbow spawning may have occurred in
Grant Creek the previous spring (Figure 48). The majority of the
juvenile rainbows rearing in Grant Creek are probably recruited from
the Trail Lakes system.
88
.....
....
...
...'
.' ...
..
.' ....
•
....
...
.' ...
.'
....'
..
...
....
-
-..
...... --
---• -
-..
-..
-
• ---
• ---
---
• --
Figure 47. Grant Creek rainbow trout taken by minnow trap and
electroshocker, October 1981 -August 1982 .
October March May June
Location 1981 1982 1982 1982
Minnow Trap:
Sample area 1 12 3 0 2
Sample area 2 2 0 7 1
Sample area 3 6 0 3 1
Sample area 4 3 0 0 0
Total Fish 3 10 3
Total Trap Hours 80 306 162 108
Catch Per Hour 0.29 0.01 0.06 0.03
Electroshocker: 15 1 7* **
August
1982
4
1
2
0
176
0.06
**
1. A 27 cm rainbow was taken by angling at the mouth of Grant Creek.
2. Three additional rainbows (20 to 30 cm) were taken by angling in
Grant Creek.
*Taken while performing the block and removal methodology (Zippen 1958).
See Appendix B.
**No electroshocker sampling conducted.
89
\.0
0
1B
OCTOBER 1981
8
MARCH 1982
rzzzi 6
HAY 1982
~ 4
JUNE 1982
~ 2
AUGUST 1982
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
f-
45
Figure 48. Length/frequency histogram of rainbow trout juveniles taken
by minnow traps, Grant Creek, 1981-1982.*
5B 6B 7B 75 8B 85 95
*Histogram of fish taken by electroshocker during the block and
removal exercise are summarized in Appendix B, Exhibit 2. LENGTH <asm>
~ ! , , , , , , , I I!!! 'I!' II
II
>1B5
• •
-
•
•
----
• -
• -----..
-
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-,.
----
Dolly Varden
Dolly Varden spawn in October and November. These char prefer
'medium to large gravel for redds, and the female may deposit 600 to
6,000 eggs, depending on her size. The eggs develop slowly through
the winter period and hatching occurs in March or April. The alevins
remain in the gravel until emergence in late April to mid-May. The
young feed actively as soon as they emerge. Major foods include
insects, spiders, and annelids as well as snails, fish eggs, and
various small fishes. The fry tend to be inactive except when
feeding, and they grow quite slowly. In nonanadromous populations in
Alaska the young may spend from several months to three or four years
in streams and then move to a lake. Juveniles of the anadromous form
rear in streams three or four years before a seaward migration in late
May. Sexual maturity is reached in three to six years in both types
of populations. Males often mature a year earlier than females. Not
all adults migrate into fresh water to spawn; some may enter streams
only to feed. Dollys can spawn more than once, returning to their
natal stream in mid-July to late September. Spawning mortality
varies, but a small number lives to spawn more than twice. Few appear
to live longer than eight years (Armstrong 1969).
Dolly Varden are known to utilize Grant Creek for rearing. Pre-
vious investigations have recorded their presence during the months of
March through September (Figure 36). Rearing Dollys have also been
recorded in Falls Creek during summer and fall (Figure 39). No obser-
vations have been made of Dolly Varden spawning in either Grant or
Falls Creeks; however, adults have been observed in Grant Creek during
the fall. Dollys are actively sought by fishermen at the mouth and in
upstream pools of Grant Creek as well uS in the Trail lakes.
The results of minnow trapping investigations of the utilization
of Grant Creek by juvenile Dolly Varden are presented in Figure 49. A
length/frequency histogram of Dolly Varden trapped in Grant Creek is
presented in Figure 50. A length/frequency histogram of fish captured
during the performance of the block and removal exercise is presented
in Appendix B, Exhibit 2.
91
Figure 49. Grant Creek Dolly Varden taken by minnow trap and
electroshocker, October 1981 -August 1982.
October Harch May June
Location 1981 1982 1982 1982
Minnow Tra:e:
Sample area 1 10 0 3 15
Sample area 2 1 0 6 5
Sample area 3 9 0 0 1
Sample area 4 2 1 0 3
Total Fish 22 1 9 24
Total Trap Hours 80 306 162 108
Catch Per Hour 0.28 .01 0.06 0.22
Electroshocker: 3 1 22* **
August
1982
21
34
26
32
126
0.90
**
1. Twenty additional Dolly Varden (20 to 30 cm) were taken by angling in
Grant Creek.
~Taken while performing the block and removal methodology (Zippen 1958).
See Appendix l3.
**No electroshocker sampling conducted.
92
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I ••
....
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,...
••
••
••
.'
..
...
.... .
...
...
.... , .. -...
-•
I t I. II'. I. I. II I. II II I. II Ii II Ii II II I. i
'-D
w
24
-
OCTOBER 1981 22 -
,....
29 ;--
-
MARDi 1982 18 -
-
16 rl I II -
-
14 -
MAY 1982 -
12 -
~ 10
r-
;--
r-
JUNE 1982 8 ;--
-
~ 6 -
-
AUGUST 1982 4 -
r-
2 r--
l-
0
55
Figure 50. Length/frequency histogram of Dolly Varden juveniles taken
by minnow traps, Grant Creek, 1981-1982.*
n R ~ n 11 ~
68 65 78 .75 8B 85 95
*Histogram of fish taken by electroshocker during the block and
removal exercise are summarized in Appendix B, Exhibit 2. LENGTH <mas)
R
lSB >195
I,
The results of investigations using minnow traps of the use of
Falls Creek by juvenile Dolly Varden are presented in Figure 51. A
length frequency histogram of these fish is presented in Figure 52.
Dolly Varden juveniles were the most ubiquitous fish found in
Grant Creek. They were distributed in all study areas in a wide
variety of habitats, including shallow, slow water; deep pools; stream
margins in sections with high velocities; mid-channel in areas where
large boulders or debris protected them from high velocities; and in
temporary backwaters and side channels during high flows.
The Dolly Varden captured in Grant Creek in May (including those
taken during the electroshocking conducted during the block and
removal exercise) and June of 1982 were all 65 nun or larger (Fig-
ure 52). The absence of fry indicates that Dollys do not spawn in
Grant Creek. In August 1982 Dolly Varden ranging from 55 nun to 30 cm
were observed in nearly every location in which observations were
made. This would indicate a high level of rearing recruitment from
the Trail lakes system, which was extremely glacially turbid relative
to Grant Creek at this time. Grant Creek and other relatively clear
streams may play an important role in the production of Dolly Varden
in the highly turbid Trail lakes area. Like the other salmonids of
Grant Creek, Dolly Varden became much less evident in the winter
months.
Dolly Varden were the only fish species caught in Falls Creek.
They were distributed throughout the creek in a diverse range of habi-
tats, including the area being actively placer mined. The cold water
and mining activity of Falls Creek provided marginal habitat, and the
utilization of the creek was considerably less than that of Grant
Creek. In the winter, Falls Creek was frozen solidly to the thalweg
and offered no overwintering habitat. No evidence of adult Dolly
Varden or spawning activity was recorded in Falls Creek.
Sculpins
Sculpin spawn in spring and may continue spwaning through the
sununer, usually in the lower reaches of a stream. The males build a
nest in a protected spot and defend the area after mating. Sexual
maturi ty is reached in the third and fourth year. Slimy sculpin
94
... '
...
...
-
...
...
--..
-..
...
----
..
..
..
•
. -
-
..
-..
...
... ..
-..
-
-.... ------'----'--
Figure 51. Falls Creek Dolly Varden taken by
minnow trap, October 1981 -August 1982 .
Location
Sample area 1
Sample area 2
Sample area 3
Sample area 4
Total Fish
Total Trap Hours
Catch Per Hour
October
1981
1
3
0
16
20
108
0.19
March
1982
Frozen
to
thalweg
May
1982
Frozen
to
thalweg
June
1982
2
4
o
1
7
108
0.06
August
1982
1
11
o
4
72
0.22
1. Two Dolly Varden (70 and 110 mm) \vere taken in traps set for 16 hours
above the active placer mine area. Several other Dolly Varden (70 to
120 mm) \vere observed in the pump intake pool within the active
placer mine area.
95
12
OCTOBER 1981 '-
10 '--
JLt£ 1982 -
rllli 8 -
-
'" AlGJST 1982 (j\
6 -
~ r-
4 -
-
2 -
-
45
, I " , 1 , ,
Figure 52. Length/frequency histogram of Dolly Varden juveniles taken
by minnow traps, Falls Creek, 1981-1982.
-
I
I X
X -I X I V X V )( I~
X X X ~
55 65 70 75 85 95
L.£NGTH <-> , , I , r " , ~ I 1
~
X
109
t .
:1'1
~
~
)(
X
X
)(
X
X
X
X
X
~
~
~
~
~
~
~
0(
~
~
>105
• •
,;lit
.!III
..
....
ill
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apparently do not migrate except for spawning and are quite sedentary.
The coastrange sculpin may migrate seasonally, downstream in the
spring and upstream in the fall or winter.
The slimy sculpin is almost exclusively insectivorous in its food
habi ts, feeding on diptera larvae, ephemeroptera, and trichoptera.
Smaller fish feed most heavily on diptera, especially chironomids.
The food of the coastrange sculpin consists mainly of benthic insect
larvae and nymphs, including trichoptera, plecoptera, and ephemerop-
tera. It may also prey on salmon fry and does compete for food with
coho salmon fry (Ringstad 1974).
Sculpins are found both in Grant Lake and in Grant Creek. The
sculpin uniformly found in Grant Lake is the slimy sculpin--Cottus
cognatus (Richardson)--and the species found in Grant Creek (except at
the outlet of the lake above the falls) is the coastrange sculpin--
Cottus aleuticus (Gilbert). Previous investigators recorded sculpin
in Grant Lake (USFWS 1961) and Grant Creek during most months of the
year (Figure 36).
In our investigations of Grant Lake, slimy sculpin were trapped
in very small numbers, especially relative to stickleback (500/1).
They were found in shallow littoral areas in both basins, usually in
coves with evident detrital cover. Two were found in Grant Creek in a
large pool between the upper and lower falls. The number of coast-
range sculpin found in Grant Creek was moderate. Nineteen were taken
in traps and 70 by electroshocker during the entire field study. They
were present in all seasons of the year and in all study areas except
the uppermost. In both swift-running and quiet water they were found
hugging the bottom, often in the heads and tails of riffles.
,Stickleback
Previous investigators found threespine stickleback--Gasterosteus
aculeatus (Linnaeus) --in Grant Lake in large numbers (USFWS 1961).
Stickleback are often important food for larger fishes or birds.
Breeding occurs in spring and summer. The male builds the nest and
guards it after spawning. Sexual maturity is reached in the first or
second year:. Sticklebacks mostly eat zooplankton and insects, but
their diet can be very diverse.
97
In our investigation of Grant Lake, stickleback were found mainly
in moderately shallow littoral areas in both basins; however, the
numbers of fish per trap in the lower basin and narrows area exceeded
those in the upper basin ten to one. No stickleback were found in
areas of disturbed shoreline or in the pelagic zone.
Incidental Fishes
Both adult grayling and whitefish have been reported in Grant
Creek (Figure 37, AEIDC 1980). These species are believed to be
opportunistically feeding in Grant Greek and are not regular residents
or spawners in the system. We collected one grayling in October 1981
in Study Area 3 of Grant Creek; none were collected at any other time.
No whitefish were observed or collected during our study.
98
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III'
"',
!III'
a, ..
....
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... ..
III<
II'
.,
1III
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i ••
1l1li
ill.
....
TERRESTRIAL BIOTA
BOTANICAL RESOURCES
INTRODUCTION
The Kenai Peninsula-Prince William Sound region is the northern
limit of the coastal hemlock-spruce forest which stretches nearly two
thousand miles from Oregon to Alaska. In southcentral Alaska this
type is generally limited by steep mountains and glaciers to a narrow
coastal fringe (Ruth and Harris 1979). The primary species present in
the coastal forest are western hemlock and Sitka spruce. Mountain
hemlock often takes the place of western hemlock, and white spruce
often replaces Sitka spruce as a major component of this forest type
on the Kenai Peninsula. white spruce/Sitka spruce hybrids are found
on the Kenai Peninsula (Viereck and Little 1972). Common understory
plants include alder, rusty menziesia, various blueberries, and
highbush cranberry. Areas of poor drainage often support open bogs,
typically vegetated with low shrubs, mosses, and sedges (Viereck and
Little 1972). Timberline on the Kenai Peninsula is generally at 1,000
to 1,500 ft (Ruth and Harris 1979).
Grant Lake lies in a valley with steep, avalanche-prone slopes.
The mountain tops are essentially barren of plant life and have
numerous permanent snowfields. Barren areas are common throughout the
alpine and subalpine areas in the form of talus slopes, cliffs and
rock outcrops, and drainage areas. Alpine areas are restricted and
often interspersed with barren areas. The subalpine mosiac of alder
thickets and grass/forb meadows is the most dominant vegetation type
in the Grant Lake basin and is the primary association in the Falls
Creek drainage. The Inlet Creek valley of Grant Lake supports a
mature balsam poplar association along the delta and conifer stands
farther up valley. Conifer stands occur in some avalanche-free sites
around the lake. The area between Grant Lake and the Trail lakes is
forested with conifers and mixed conifer/broadleaf stands which are
broken by several ponds and numerous bogs.
The high snowfall and frequent avalanche activity are important
forces in the distribution of plant communi ties in the study area.
99
Tall, stiff-stenuned plants, such as trees, are usually absent from
avalanche chutes since they are regularly broken off by the force of
an avalanche. Shorter, relatively flexible plants, such as alder and
grasses, are not as easily damaged and are often pioneer species in
revegetation of disturbed sites.
DESCRIPTION OF MAPPING UNITS
A species list is included as Appendix C and a map delineating
vegetation associations in the project area is included as Appendix D.
Conifer Forest
This vegetation association type is represented in the study area
primarily by white spruce and western hemlock in pure or mixed stands.
Mountain hemlock occurs at higher elevations. Understory shrubs are
primarily rusty menziesia, early blueberry, and Alaska spirea.
Devil's club can be found in moist areas and along drainages. Forest
openings may support Sitka alder, serviceberry, Pacific red elder, and
Sitka mountain ash. Other conunon shrubs in this type are trailing
black currant and American red currant. The ground cover in this type
is primarily a carpet of Sphagnum spp. and other mosses with five-leaf
bramble, and lingonberry trailing over the moss carpet. (This
association corresponds to Viereck, Dyrness, and Batten's (1982) Level
III closed needle leaf forest except for the black spruce bogs which
correspond to Level II open needleleaf forest.)
Conifer forest occurs primarily between Grant Lake and Upper
Trail Lake, in patches along the shores of Grant Lake, in the valley
of the inlet stream, and between the mouth of the Falls Creek valley
and the Trail River. Areas of poor drainage may support open stands
of black spruce with an understory of Labrador tea, lingonberry, and
dwarf blueberry growing over a layer of sphagnum moss and lichens
(primarily Cladonia spp.). These black spruce bogs occur along the
Trail lakes and scattered throughout the lower elevations around ponds
and adjacent to the more open wet meadows.
100
"'"
-
III"
...
,.
III· ..
•
-
-... -
..
..
.. -•
...
.. w
.~.
'01.
....
...
'W I.
..
•• ,.
,-
-
•
-
-
•
Broadleaf Forest
This association is dominated by cottonwood with an understory of
rather tall (15-25 ft) felt leaf willow, Sltka willow, Sitka alder, and
occasional white spruce. The ground cover is extremely sparse and
consists of scattered patches of horsetail and river beauty. Frequent
flooding is probably a very important force in this type. (This type
corresponds with the Level IV closed balsam poplar forest of Viereck,
Dyrness, and Batten (1982).)
This association occurs in the project area only along Inlet
Creek and on a small delta to the west of the main delta. Inlet Creek
does not have a well-defined channel and appears to shift its course
across the delta frequently. During July 1982 the main body of the
stream was flowing directly through a mature cottonwood stand .
Mixed Broadleaf/Needleleaf Forest
This type is dominated by paper birch and white spruce with
western hemlock on relatively warm, dry sites. Cool wet sites are
often dominated by black spruce. The common understory plants of this
type are rusty menziesia, highbush cranberry, early blueberry,
American red currant, and prickly rose. Devil's club is found in wet
places and along streams. Open sites often support Sitka alder
thickets. The ground cover in the mixed forest is primarily mosses,
bunchberry, five-leaf bramble, and lingonberry. The mixed forest type
occurs in the project area in a band along the Trail Lakes and in the
Vagt Lake area. (This type corresponds with Viereck, Dyrness, and
Batten (1982) Level III closed mixed forest.)
Riparian Scrub
This is a rather simple association. It consists almost entirely
of willows. Plants such as river beauty, fireweed, horsetail, and, on
drier sites, bluejoint make up the understory vegetation. (This type
corresponds with Viereck, Dyrness and Batten (1982) Level III open
tall shrub scrub.) Distribution of this type is very restricted in
the project area, occurring only along the Inlet Creek, on the Grant
Lake delta, and interspersed with the broadleaf forest.
101
Upland Scrub
This community makes up most of the subalpine vegetation in the
study area. It is primarily composed of Sitka alder thickets in a
complex mosaic with the grass/forb meadow type. Because of this
complexity, we included most of the grass/forb meadows in this unit on
the map. (A description of the meadow type follows.) This closed
scrub community has a poorly expressed understory composed primarily
of ladyfern. In some avalanche chutes the alder is mixed with
willows. Rusty menziesia may form substantial portions of this type
along the conifer/scrub interface. (It corresponds with Viereck,
Dyrness, and Batten (1982) Level IV closed tall alder scrub.) This
association generally occurs from 700-2,500 ft along the mountain
slopes throughout the study area.
Grass/Forb Meadow
This community forms a mosaic with the upland scrub type des-
cribed above. As stated, because of the complexity of the association
and the small size of these meadows in the study area, we included
most of them in the upland scrub unit on the maps. The larger meadows
were mapped separately. The primary constituent of this type is
bluejoint grass. Salmonberry, red raspberry, fireweed, cow parsnip,
false hellebore, and goatsbeard are found throughout these meadows but
generally are sparse. Dry, rocky slopes often support prickly rose,
yarrow, arctic sagewort, cranesbill, and harebell. Monkeyflower is
conspicuous along drainages. (These types correspond to Viereck,
Dyrness and Batten (1982) Level III mesic graminoid herbaceous and
Level III mesic forb herbaceous.) These meadows are located primarily
along the slopes of both Grant Lake and the Falls Creek valley, but
small meadows also can be found in the mixed forest and conifer forest
types.
Bog (Wet Meadow)
Sphagnum mosses form the basis of this type. The bogs vary from
extremely wet, floating mats to firm, treed bogs with a high propor-
tion of shrubs. Often there is a small pond or wet spot near the
center of the bog. The wettest of these communities support sphagnum,
102
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sundews, buckbean, scattered white beakrush and sedges.
themselves often support buckbean and yellow pond lily.
The ponds
The drier
bogs may support scattered black spruce, dwarf birch, labrador tea,
lingonberry, dwarf blueberry, crowberry, and cloudberry. (This type
corresponds to Level III wet graminoid herbaceous and Level IV open
low shrub scrub, ericaceous shrub-sphagnum bog of Viereck, Dyrness,
and Batten (1982).) These bogs are most common in the project region
in areas of low relief in the mixed and conifer forest types, often
surrounding ponds or lakes. Most of them occur between Grant Lake and
the Trail lakes. Some of the smaller or more forested bogs are
included in the forest classes .
Alpine Tundra
Tundra vegetation can vary considerably depending on the micro-
climate of a site. In many areas, subalpine communi ties intergrade
with tundra types, making the delineations between these types some-
what arbitrary. Therefore, this description is a generalization of
many types which occur in patches throughout the alpine zone. Lichens
are conspicuous in many alpine areas, the most prevalent being
Cladonia spp. and Stereocaulon spp. Prostrate willows, such as
ovalleaf willow and arctic willow form a mat over the lichens in many
alpine areas, as does bearberry. Graminoids, such as woodrush,
finely-awned sedge, and fescue, are interspersed throughout tundra
areas, especially on most sites. Alaska moss heath, Aleutian mountain
heather, and crowberry can cover large areas on the alpine slopes.
Luetkea pectinata and sweet coltsfoot grow in moist places such as
snowbeds and along drainages. Bog blueberry grows in patches on sunny
slopes. Shrubby willows such as barclay willow, feltleaf willow, and
dj"amondleaf willow grow along some of the alpine drainages. (The
alpine tundra type correlates to Level III open dwarf shrub scrub of
Viereck, Dyrness, and Batten (1982).) Alpine tundra in the study area
is limited by the steep barren mountain tops, talus slopes, and
permanent snowfields. It is most extensive on south-facing slopes
above 2,000 ft.
103
Barren
These areas are mountain tops, talus slopes, cliffs, and snow-
field which have less than 10 percent coverage in plants.
VEGETATION OF IMPACT SITES
FigureS3 relates the amount of each vegetation type to the
amount likely to be modified by project structures.
Grant Lake Drawdown Area
The area that would be exposed by the drawdown of Grant Lake is
essentially barren of macrophytes with the exception of two areas. A
protected cove at the neck between the upper and lower basins of Grant
Lake supports a small stand of the sedge Carex rhynchophysa. The
outlet of Grant Lake has a robust stand of white water crowfoot. This
plant provides habitat for a great many freshwater clams and snails.
Grant Lake was the only location where the white water crowfoot was
found in the study area. C. rhyncophysa was also found along a Grant
Creek tributary stream.
Falls Creek Inundation
The proposed Falls Creek damsi te is located in a steepwalled
canyon with very little vegetation, primarily alders, scattered mosses
and saxifrages. It is anticipated that the dam and inundation would
effect no more than I acre (D. Smith, pers. comrn.) and should not
impact any major plant communi ties. Construction of the dam may
disturb an area of transition between conifer forest and upland scrub
and grass/forb meadow. These are very common types in the study area.
Falls Creek Diversion Tunnel and Access Road
The preliminary design of the Falls Creek diversion tunnel and
accompanying access road places them along the interface between the
conifer and mixed forest types and the upland scrub type. The scrub
in this area is primarily alder and rusty menziesia with little or no
understory aside from patches of bluejoint. The tunnel and road might
be routed through a large bluejoint meadow which borders the southern
end of Grant Lake. Grass in this nearly pure stand grew to nearly
104
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..
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IN ..
.. .
...
... ..
.'
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lilt· ..
-..
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I I I i I I I I i I I I I I I • l
Figure 53. Amount of cover types to be altered by project structures.
Conifer Mixed Broadleaf Riparian Upland Grass/ forb Aquatics
forest forest forest scrub scrub meadow Bog Alpine Barren (Grant Lake)
Total acres in studz area 3,914 1,156 92 100 6,299 900 156 5,966 17,470 < 1
Tutal acres to be altered:
Drawdo\ffi area 70 < 1
Falls Creek inundation < 1
Falls Creek diversion
tunnel and access road 4 2 < 1
Fa 11s Creek/Trail Lake
access r03d 4 < 1
Grant Lake/powerhouse
access road 2 < 1
...... Powerhouse site
0
V1 Total area to be al tered:
Acres 12 7 0 0 Approx. 2 < 1 Approx. 0 Approx. 70 < 1
Percent < 1% < 1% 0% 0% < 1% < 1% < 1% 0% < 1% Approx. 100;;
Kate: These figures are approximations based on preliminary sitings of project structures and may change significantly when exact sites are
chosen. Numbers have been rounded to the nearest integer. Areas for project structures are based on figures from D. Smith (pers. camm.).
seven ft during the 1982 field season. Patches of cow parsnip and
occasional willow also occur in the area. The forest types tend to be
slightly more open along this edge, as the trees are near their
altitudinal limits. This openness allows the understory to grow more
profusely than it does in closed areas. The forest and scrub are very
common types in the study area. The meadow areas along this route are
not unique in composition, although they occur' at a much lower
elevation, have less of a slope, and are generally larger than most
meadows in the area.
Falls Creek/Trail Lakes Access Road
This structure would primarily cross through the mixed and
conifer forest types in an area characterized by rolling hills and
small drainages. Some small bogs might also be disrupted by project
construction. None of these areas is particularly unique relative to
the rest of the study area, although the bogs are the least common
vegetation type.
Grant Lake/Powerhouse Access Road
This structure would be routed through conifer forest and bog
communities for most of its length. As with the other access roads,
there are no affected areas which are unique relative to the rest of
the study area.
Powerhouse Site
The proposed powerhouse site is in a paper birch stand at the
interface between a mixed forest and a bog community. The understory
is almost entirely rusty menziesia. The ground cover is moss with
lingonberry, five-leaf bramble, and bunchberry. The bog community is
very shrubby with scattered black spruce. The shrubs are shrubby
cinquefoil, dwarf birch, labrador tea and dwarf blueberry. Ground
cover is mosses (primarily Sphagnum spp.) and lichens (primarily
Cladonia spp.) with crowberry, lingonberry and cloudberry. As with
the other project structures, the vegetation types that are likely to
be affected are well represented in the study area.
106
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iii!
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-
-
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,-
-
SUCCESSIONAL TRENDS
There are several major factors that influence succession,
including the type of seedbed available, vegetative community present
before disruption, seed and propagule sources, degree of disruption,
and climatic and weather conditions. Of these, the type of seedbed is
one of the most influential. If the exposed soil has a large compo-
nent of unweathered parent material and has never supported plant
life, the invasion and development of vegetation associations is
called primary succession. In secondary succession, the seedbed has
previously supported vegetation. Past vegetation may have been
destroyed by such forces as fire, cultivation, or timber harvest. The
soil, including humus, remains, and there are usually some residual
plants, propagules, or seeds (Daubenmire 1968).
The type of succession will influence the types of associations
and the rate of replacement that will develop wi thin the community.
Secondary seres profit greatly from a seedbed which has an active soil
fauna, residual plants, and an abundance of available nutrients. This
abundance of nutrients is due to the presence of organic matter,
minerals which have been broken down by plant exudates, and the
ability to retain water. Primary seres must cope with a comparatively
sterile environment. Mineral soils do not retain water well, nutri-
ents may be severely unbalanced or physiologically unavailable, and
there may be a lack of good rooting medium. The rate of recovery can
be extremely slow under these circumstances.
In the study area, primary succession areas include landslides,
talus slopes, cliffs, mountaintops, recently glaciated areas, lake-
shores, streambeds, and associated gravel deposits. Though plant
growth in some of these areas may be limited by continual perturbation
or extreme physiological factors such as cold temperatures, other
areas may become well vegetated in less than 50 years (Holmes 1981).
An important characteristic of "good" sites seem to be a large pro-
portion of fine particles in the soil.
be important colonizing sites because
Surface depressions appear to
of the collection of fine
particles, loose organic matter, and moisture as well as protection
from sun and wind (Holmes 1981).
107
Source of seeds or other propagules near the bare area is also
important in determining the pioneering species. Large bare areas
tend to vegetate from the edges inward due to the proximity of seed
sources. In the harshest areas Stereocaulon spp., Umbilicaria spp.
and other lichens and some mosses would most likely prevail. Where
the amount of fine particles is greater, herbaceous species such as
fireweed and woody plants such as birch and willow may invade. Shrubs
such as highbush cranberry and red raspberry may invade in areas with
a moderate content of fine particles. The nitrogen fixing shrub alder
appears to colonize sites where fine particles make up a high percent-
age of the substrate (Holmes 1981). Areas such as lakeshores and
stream courses may be affected by hydrologic changes which could
influence colonization. Permanent flooding would limit plant species
to aquatic and emergent species if substrates are suitable. Lowering
of water levels or changes in stream courses could make some areas
available for plant colonization.
Willow is a common pioneer species along rivers and streams.
Lowering of water levels in streams may have some effect on adjacent
vegetation communities through a decrease in seasonal flooding as well
as a possible decrease in available water. This would depend a great
deal on the groundwater situation in the area. An example of this
type of change would be a movement from a riparian willow community to
an alder, birch, or cottonwood association.
The types of areas which support secondary succession include
avalanche chutes, burns, bladed roads, blowdowns, and any other
surface perturbation in already vegetated areas. In addition,
succession is an ongoing process wi thin any given vegetation type.
Again, this process may be limited by the physiological limits of
plant growth, environmental conditions, substrate, and propagule
sources. The severity of disturbance can have profound effects on the
revegetation of a site. Severely disturbed sites would probably have
fewer viable residual plants, and would take longer to revegetate.
Bladed roads and other severe disturbance which remove and
compact the soil destroy most of the previous vegetation and take the
longest to recover. Invading species are often fireweed, lupine, and
alder. Alder can form dense thickets along unused roads within a few
years.
108
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Avalanches generally do not remove all of the vegetation in their
path, however, most tree species are destroyed. More flexible plants,
such as alder, willow, graminoids, and other herbaceous species,
generally survive. Because avalanches tend to recur in the same
pathway, many avalanche chutes exhibit a scrub community even though
they may have the potential to support forest communities.
Fire sweeping through an area, may leave many plants essentially
unharmed or may destroy all aboveground plant tissue. Rarely will it
destroy all roots and underground propagules, which often send up
shoots within a year of the fire. Fireweed is well known for flourish-
ing after a fire.
The Kenai Peninsula has been the site of many forest fires. The
two largest in recent history occurred in 1947 (421,000 acres) and in
1969 (86,000 acres). Neither burned the study area. Periodic burning
of area forests has been attributed with creating favorable moose
habitat. Successional trends after fire are essentially dependent on
the previous vegetation (Spencer and Hakala 1964; Hakala et al. 1971).
At lower elevations burned over areas tend to favor hardwood browse
species such as aspen, willow, and birch. In time, and without the
influence of fire, conifers eventually dominate (Spencer and Hakala
1964) .
ENDANGERED SPECIES
Currently, no indigenous Alaska plant species are listed by the
u.s. Fish and wildlife Service as threatened or endangered. However,
there are 31 species currently under review (Federal Register, Vol.
45, No. 242, Monday, December 15, 1980). Of these, only one Puccinel-
lia trif10ra has been reported on the Kenai Peninsula. This alkali
grass is found in the coastal wetlands of the Cook Inlet-Kenai Penin-
sula area (Murray 1980). Since no habitat is available within the
study area, this species would not be expected to occur and was not
found during field investigations .
109
WILDLIFE RESOURCES
INTRODUCTION
The fauna of the Kenai Peninsula is relatively simple compared to
that of the mainland because physiography poses a formidable barrier
to animal migration. The peninsula is connected to the mainland only
by a mountainous isthmus about 12 miles across. Many species which
are widely distributed and locally abundant in interior Alaska, e.g.,
ground squirrels and pikas, are absent from the Kenai Peninsula.
This section reviews the distribution and relative abundance of
birds and mammals within the study area. Information presented here
is based on a comprehensive statewide literature review, interviews
-" with knowledgeable residents and agency personnel, and aerial and foot
surveys of the project area. At Ebasco's request, we made subjective
population estimates for select species. Note that most of our
estimates pertain strictly to those animals present within the study
area in a given season in a given year. This is an important point
since most of the species involved are wide ranging during warmer
months. We do not know whether or not these numbers describe a
discrete population or whether they represent only part of that
population. Also, remember that the reliability of a given estimate
,
varies in relation to the level of information available at the time
the estimate was made. For example, estimates supported by long-term
trend data are probably more reliable than those which are not.
Again, keep in mind that all estimates presented in this study are
specific to a single instant in time. We made no attempt to account
for naturally occurring changes in population numbers through time nor
did we attempt to evaluate the influence of hunter-induced mortality
on our estimates. Also at Ebasco' s request, we focused on several
species and species groups more than others. These are moose, Dall's
sheep, mountain goat, bears, beaver, ptarmigan, spruce grouse,
raptors, and waterfowl.
AMPHIBIA
Wood frogs (Rana sylvatica) are widely distributed throughout
lOW-lying habitats on the Kenai Peninsula (Hodge 1976; D. Spencer,
110
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pers. corron.}. suitable breeding, rearing, and over-winter habitats
are found in the western part of the study area between Grant and
Trail lakes. Specimens were often noted on the benchland west of
Grant Lake and along Grant Creek. Although historical sightings of
both the rough-skinned newt and boreal toad exist from Cook Inlet it
is doubtful that either species occurs in the study area (Hodge 1976).
Recent sightings are conspicuously absent and both records represent
range extensions. In all probability these sightings reflect chance
encounters since neither species has been sighted on the Kenai
Peninsula in recent years •
AVES
The Alaska avifauna is vast and diverse, comprising approximately
382 species (Kessel and Gibson 1978). Of these, about 130 species are
found on the Kenai Peninsula or in its coastal waters (USFS unpub-
lished) . It appears likely
either inhabit or migrate
that approximately 108
through the Grant Lake
species
project
could
area.
Comprehensive avian studies have not been previously conducted within
project boundaries.
Figure 54 lists birds that may occur in the project area, their
scientific names, breeding status, relative abundances, and breeding
habitats. (Abundance ratings refer only to numbers within project
boundaries.) This information was compiled from a literature review
and on-site field investigations. Figure 55 compares avifauna habitat
types to vegetation associations. The majority of information
gathered on birds was incidental to other surveys. Abbreviated
accounts of the major species groups as well as individual accounts of
upland game birds are presented below.
During our field studies 63 species of birds were observed. This
represents 48 percent of the total number of species present on the
Kenai Peninsula and 58 percent of those species which could seasonally
use the project area. The probability of observing all the species
listed in Figure 54 in anyone year is remote. The 63 species
observed probably represents the majority of the bird types which
utilized the Grant Lake study area in 1981-82. It is also represen-
tative of the type and number of birds found in other mountain valleys
111
Figure 54. Avifauna which probably inhabit or migrate through the Grant Lake study area.
A· Abundant
C· Common Breeding Habitats in the Grant Lake Study Area' FC· Fairly common
U· Uncommon
R· Rare
XX· Primary breeding habitat
X· Secondary breeding habitat ~ ~
..:.I
(I) . Habitat types follow Kessel 1979. = Q '" '0 ~ '0 ~ :c ~ = '" .. ~ ~~ (2) . Abundanc.e categories follow the U.S. Forest Service unpublished. .~l .. '" ,;;'" .. ..:.I
""' ~ .. -~ .. .. '" ..:.I .. -'" Applies to study area only. ~ ~ ..:.1'0 :; :; :c '" .. .. Q ... '0 ... ... .. .. '" ="il &> :c .. Q .. .. Q .. c ~ .5 ~ ""' " Q ... Q Q Q
Endal1~ercd spe(ies. ='0 ;:§ .. .-&> &> .. ""' .... .... ::: .... ~~ 0 Q]l Breeding .. &> .... Q = " .c
'" ~"E =..:.1 '0 .. .. &> 00 &> '" '" = '" '0 .... ... ~ .c .c = " = " Q "
.. ...
'" = U '"
.. .. Q '0 .. .. ...... '0 '" .. 'i: 0 :: Q .. 00 00 .c e .. Q .. UQ ~ ~ Q = ~ ~ ~ Q .c t~ '0 -.c .i~ ~=, :; "'" '5 00 " " ... ~~ 'iii ~'O .. '0 = :goo .. :a 00 '0 "'" ~Q ....... Q ... ... .. " ,a-g .. ~ '0 'c ='0
.. lloc "''0 !::"C ~ ~ ~ =a .~ ~ C>t = ~ ""'~ &> .. = Q ... ... 0 ~ O~ ~= -== -< - = ~ Q Q ... :; Q U :;Q '" = Species ..... .... .. U .. ""' 00 ..
Common Loon Gavia immer x x FC xx x
Yellow·billed Loon Gavia adamsii R X
Arctic Loon Gavia arc/ica x x u xx x
Red·throated Loon Gavia s/el/a/a R xx x
Red·necked Grebe Podiceps grisegena R XX x
Horned Grebe Podiceps auri/us u xx x
Whistling Swan Olor columbianus R x
Trumpeter Swan Olor buccin%~~r u x xx x
Canada Goose Bran/a canadensis u x x xx
Mallard Anas pla/yrhynchos x x C xx x x x
Pintail Anas acu/a FC xx x x
Green·winged Teal Anas crecca x x u xx
Blue· .... ing Teal A nas discors R x xx x
American Widgeon Anas americana x x u x xx x
Lesser Scaup Ay/hya affinis x u x xx
Common Goldeneye Bucephala clangula x x FC X X xx
Barrows Goldeneye Bucephala islandica x FC x X xx
Buffelhead Bucephala albeola u x x xx
Harieqllin Duck His/rionicus his/rionicus x x R xx XX xx
Common Merganser Mergus merganser x C x x xx
Red·breasted Merganser Mergus serra/or x FC x X X x
Goshawk Accipi/er gen/ilis u x x xx
Sharp·shinned Hawk Accipiler s/ria/us x C x x.x x
Red·tailed Hawk Bu/eo jamaicensis u x x x x x
Rough·legged Hawk Bu/eo lagopus u xx
Marsh Hawk Circus cyaneus R xx x
Golden Eagle Aquila chrysae/os x x C xx x
Bald Eagle Haliaee/us leucocephalus x FC xx X x
Merlin Falco columbarius R x x X xx
American Kestrel Falco sparverius x R x X xx
Spruce Grouse Canachi/es canadensis x x FC X xx
Willow Plarmigan Lagopus lagopus x x C x xx x
Rock Ptarmigan Lagopus mU/us x x C XX x
White·tailed Ptarmigan Lagopus leucurus u xx x
Sandhill C;rane Grus canadensis R x
Semipalmated Plover Charudrius semipulma/lis u xx xx
Black·bellied Plover Pluvialus squa/arola u x xx
Common Snipe Capel/a gal/inago x x FC X xx
. . . I i i , , i I I • , , If ~ , , , I , It ! ~ " ., • J . " c It , , , 4 • 1/ • p I i t
I , I j I I I i I i • • I j I I i J I j I j • 1 i • i l Ii ~
Figure 54 (Continued). Avifauna which probably inhabit or migrate through the Grant Lake study area.
A-Abundant
C-Common Breeding Habitats in the Grant Lake Study Area"
FC -Fairly common
U -Uncommon
R -Rare
XX-Primary breeding babitat
X-~comjary breeding habitat ~ OJ .:0:
(I) -Habitat types folio" Kessel 1979. c co " 'C co 'C OJ :a OJ . c
Forest Scn'ice unpublished. '" '" " .. i '" .! '" (2)-Abundance cat~gorics follow (he U,S, .. " .. '" ~'" '" .:0:
""' .:0: ~ =-
C '" '" .. .:o:'C ~ ~ " " '" .. co ~ 'C'" ...
Applies to study area only.
._ rJ) .. '" ~ ~ co; :a ~ :c .. co .. .. co .. C .. ~ '" ""' = co ~ '" co co co ='C Breeding .S ~:§ ,,--~ ~ ~ .. ""' ~ !::"-~:: 0 Endangered spc,ie>. Q] ~'" ~~ co = = ~ .c '" c '" " ~"E '" ~ =.:0: 'C .. .. = rJ) ~ '" = co = .. ... 'C~ = U" " ~ .c .. = = co U co 'C " .. "' .... = E "'f t " oS ~ :: co ~ rJ) ~ e .. co .. '" ~ co
t~ 'C -.c co .c = ~ 'C.g ~Q '; cia .... .... = ~~ t~ C :grJ) .:! rJ) .. Ii '6
rJ) 'C 'c '" .-.. = .e~ " ~ ·c
;0( " ';'C .. .!oc co .. c! ~ "'C :"'CI OJ ~ ~ '" 'i c .. ~ " c co '" co .-'" " c ~ o~ ::.c= .::= -< - = ~ Q Q ...:I ~ ""' Q U ~Q rJ) " Species ... " ~ " U " .---------------------------------------'"--------------
Whim brei Numenius phaeopus R xx x x
Eskimo Curlew· Numenius borealis R xx x
Spotted Sandpiper Acritis macularia x x FC xx xx X x
Least Sandpiper Calidris minutilla u x
Wandering Tattler Heteroscelus incana x u x xx
Greater Yellowlegs Tringra melanoleuca x x C x xx
Lesser Yellowlegs Tringra flavipes x x C xx
Long-billed Dowitcher Limnodromus scolopaceus u x
Norrhern Phalarope Phalaropus lobatus u xx x
Glaucous-winged Gull Larus glaucescens u xx
Herring Gull Larus argentatus R x
Mew Gull Larus canus x U X xx
Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea x FC xx x
Great Horned Owl Bubo virginianus u x x x x
Great Grey Owl Strix nebulosa u x xx x
Hawk Owl Surnia ulula u x x xx
Boreal Owl Aegolius funereus u xx x
Saw-whet Owl Aegolius acadicus u x xx x
Belted Kingfisher Megaceryle alcyon x x C xx
Yellow-shafted Flicker Colapter auratus auratus x u XX x x
Hairy Woodpecker Picoides villosus x x u xx x x
Downy Woodpecker Picoides pubescens R xx x x
Northern Three-toed Woodpecker Picoides tridactylus x x FC xx x
Traill's (Willow) Flycatcher Empidonax traillii x x FC X xx X x
Olive-sided Flycatcher Nurrallornis borealis u xx x x
Violet-green Swallow Tachycinela Ihalassina x x A X X X X x
Tree Swallow lridoprocne bicolor x x A X X X x
Bank Swallow Riparia riparia x x C xx
Oiff Swallow Petrochelidon pyrrhonata u xx
Grey Jay Perisoreus canadensis x x C x xx x x
Black-billed Magpie Pica pica x C xx xx x x
Northern Raven Corvus cor vax x C x x x x
Black-capped Chickadee Parus atricapillus x x A X xx X x
Boreal C.hickadee Parus hudsonicus FC x x xx x
Dipper Cinclus mexican us x x A xx
Red-breasted Nuthatch Sitla canadensis R X-xx x
Brown Creeper Cerrhia familiaris u x xx x
Winter Wren Troglodytes troglodytes u x x x
Figure 54 (Continued). Avifauna which probably inhabit or migrate through the Grant Lake study area.
A-AbunJam
C -Common Breeding Habitats in the Grant Lake Study Area'
FC -Fairly colllmon
U -Uncommon
R -Rare
xx-Primary breeding habit"t
X-ScconJary breeding habitat ~ 'i:
C ..>I
ll3bitat types follow Kessel 1979. = ... .., (l) -= .., ] :c -, C
Abundance categories follow the U.S. Forest Service unpublished. '" ~ .. OJ .. -ii [;-.. -(2) -.... .. '" ,;;'" .. ... .... ..>I '" -'" C .. .. ..>I'" ~ ~ ... .. = ~ ..... ..,
Applies to ,tudy area only.
._ rJl OJ '" ~ ~ :c .=> :c .. = .. .. = .. .. ~ .. c'ij .... = = OJ = = Q "E =.., Breeding = ~:§ ... -~ .=> .=> .. .... ~ ~ :::~ ~::: 0 Endangered ,p.:cics. Q] M .. .~ ~ .=>~ = = = .=> ~ '" = '" ... :;..>1 .., .. .. .=> '" ... ~ = .. ~ .. .c .c = = = = = = .. t, ...... '" ... ~ '" = = U'" .. rJl rJl .. e .. = = U = .., ..
C t = .c .. ~ ~ Q
5! .. OJ .., -.c .i~ ~~ ~ 'i -rJl = .c = .. .., = OJ it.., ::1: C [;rJl rJl .., ... ~Q ti :c; 'c QJ:E .. lloo = .. ~ OJ = ".., .i] :-::"C 0: ~ ~ ~ =a 'lj " " OJ.., .. C ~ C .. .=> .. C -= = .. OJ = .-OJ
" C ~ Sp.'des O~ :.::= -= -< ....l .. ~ .. U .. ~ 0 0 ....l ~ .... 0 U );0 rJl ..
----._----
American Robin Turdus migratorius x x e x xx x x
Varied Thrush lxoreus naevius x x e x xx x x
Hermit Thrush CathanlS gullalus x x e x x xx x x
Swainson's Thrush Catharus ustulaiUs x x Fe xx xx x x
Grey-cheeked Thrush CathanJS minimus x x R xx X x
Golden-crowned Kinglet Regulas satrap us U xx x
Ruby-crowned Kinglet Regulas calendula x x A xx x
Water Pipit An/hus spinolella x x e x xx
Bohemian Waxwing Bom bycilla garrulus x x u xx x x
Northern Shrike Lanius excubilor x u x x xx x x x x
Orange-crowned Warbler Vermivora celala x x e x xx x >-Yellow Warbler Dendroica petechia x x e x x xx
Myrtle Warbler Dendroica coronala X X A xx x
TownsenJ's Warbler Dendroica townsendi x x A X xx x
Blackpoll Warbler Dendroica slriala U xx x
Northern Waterthrush Seiurus noveboracensis Fe x x xx x
Wilson's Warbler Wilsonia pus ilia x x A X XX x
Pine Grosbeak Pinicola enunciealOr x x e xx x
Grey-crowned Rosy Finch Leucosticte lephrocolis x FC xx
Hoary Redpoll Carduelis homemanni u xx x x
Common Redpoll Carduelis flam mea C xx x x x x x
Pine Siskin Carduelis pinus u xx x
White-winged Crossbill Loxia leucoplera u xx x
Savannah Sparrow Passerculus salldwichensis x x C xx x x x
Slate-colored Junco Junco hyemalis x x FC xx x
Tree Sparrow Spizella arborea x FC x
While-crowned Sparrow Zonolrichia leucophrys x x C xx x x x
Golden-crowned Sparrow Zonol richia al ricapilla x x A X xx X x
Fox Sparrow Passerella iliaca x u xx x X
Lincoln's Sparrow Melospiza lincolnii x u x xx x
Song Sparrow Melospiza melodia X u xx x
Lapland Longspur Calcarius lapponicus u x xx
Snow Bunting Plectrophenax Ilivalis u x
Sources: Kessel 1979
Gabrielson and Lincoln 1959
U.S. Forest Service unpublished.
Tarres 1980
Bellrose 1978
Kortright 1967
I , f i , i f , ~ , , ~ f I f , ! ~ ~ , , • !, .. 1 ! ! •
Figure 55.
1111
--...
(/J (/J
H H
Q) (/J Q) (/J
Vegetation +J <lI +J Q) .-til C til C Associations ~ ,,.., ~ ,,..,
..-I ..-I
Q) Q) Q) Q)
Q H ..-I H ,,.., 0 ,,.., 0 .. H..c: +J..c:
+J (JJ til (/J
(JJ ,,..,
;:l "0 :>"0
() C ;:l C
til til ..-I til
t-1 ~ --Conifer forest X X
• Broadleaf forest X X -Mixed hroadleaf/ • needle leaf forest X X
-Riparian scrub X X
• Upland scrub X -Grass/forb meadow X • -Bog (wet meadow) X X
• Alpine tundra X
-Barren --* A vegetation association may -several habitat types may be
** Habitat types follow Kessel ---
iiII
---
•
Comparison of avifauna habitat types
to vegetation associations.*
Habitat types **
"0
C +J
til Q)
~ ~ +J .. 0 +J () Q) +J
(/J "0 Q) ,,.., ~ (JJ
~ til +J ~ ..c: () +J Q)
C Q) til () +J ,,.., (/J H til (/J S S ,,.., ..c: Q) 0 ..0"0 ..c: ..0 +J H lH +J..-I .0 .0 +J ;:l 0 ;:l Q) ~ ;:l ;:l H ..0 lH (/J () ,,.., 0 H H ..0 ..c: ;:l ;:l
lH "0 ..c: ..c: ::l (JJ H (/J 0 .. til (JJ (JJ H ..c: ;:l H (JJ~ Q) ..c: S (JJ 0 Q)
lH () S lH lH (JJ ;:l "0 lH
lH 0 H H ,,.., ..-I ,,.., ,,..,
,,.., ..-I +J til til ~ "0 ..-I () C ..-1.0 Q) ~ ~ 0 Q) til Q) 0 u ~ ~ ~ t-1 :L: H ~ u
X X X
X X
X X
X X X
X X
X
X X X
X X X
X
-......
(/J +J
;:l (/J
o <lI
H H Q) 0
lHlH ,,..,
c (/J
0 ;:l
() 0
"0 "0 ,,..,
Q) ()
X Q) ,,.., "0
:L:
X
X
occur in multiple habitat types. Additionally,
found within any one plant association.
1979.
115
"0
C +J
til (/J
..-I Q)
"0 H
0 0
OlH
~
lH
"0 H Q) til
H ~ Q)"O
+J
+J"O
til C
() til
'fl
X
X
X
of the Kenai Mountains. Of the 63 species observed, 43 species were
known or inferred breeders wi thin the Grant Lake study area. Only
passeriformes were present in large numbers. An ice-free area at the
outlet of Grant Lake was an important winter feeding ground for a
small flock of mallards during the winter of 1981-82. This area
proved to be
project area.
one of the most important avian habitats wi thin the
Loons and Grebes
Four species of loon and two of grebes inhabit the Kenai Penin-
sula (Gabrielson and Lincoln 1959). There are no published reports of
project area use by loons and grebes. However, a pair of common loons
were observed breeding on Vagt Lake during the summer of 1976 (Trud-
gen, pers. comm.). Common and red-throated loons are fairly common
breeders on the peninsula, and both migrate south during winter. The
yellow-billed loon is a migrant though some apparently winter on the
Kenai Peninsula (Gabrielson and Lincoln 1959). This species' typical
breeding grounds are much further north than the project area. Arctic
loons are also migrants through the Kenai Peninsula; however, we
observed a pair nesting on Grant Lake. Red-necked and horned grebes
summer on the Kenai Peninsula, migrating south in fall. Some horned
grebes have been reported to occur year-round on the Kenai Peninsula
(Gabrielson and Lincoln 1959).
Nesting habitat for loons and grebes within the Grant Lake study
area is limited (Figure 56). Vagt Lake provides some of the more
suitable available habitat due to a ready food source (small fish) and
lake margins which are adequate for nest construction (marshy areas
and a small island); however, the size of the lake prohibits nesting
by more than one pair. Grant Lake also provides some nesting habitat
in isolated areas. More than one pair could easily nest on this lake.
The small ponds located on the bench between Grant Lake and Trail
lakes are poor nesting habitat because of their small size and lack of
food sources.
We noted several common loons during the study period. The birds
were observed on Grant Lake, flying overhead, on Trail lakes, and on
Vagt Lake. A pair observed during June on Vagt Lake were assumed to
116
'''1\1
. '
....
-...
.."
.... -
-
, ...
-
, ...
-
..
l1li
..
.... -
Figure 56.
KEY
Potential loon and grebe
nesting habitat.
~ Nesting habitat
• Location of arctic loon nest
be nesting. A pair of Arctic loons nested on Grant Lake during the
summer of 1982. This is an unusual occurrence as most Arctic loon
nesting takes place much further north. R. Richie (pers. comm.)
stated that a few pairs have been known to nest on the Kenai Penin-
sula, but there are no published records. Gabrielson observed a pair
at the mouth of the Kenai River and suspected they were nesting but
could not confirm it (Gabrielson and Lincoln 1959). It is not
known whether these birds will return to the same nesting grounds
during ensuing years. Figure 57 gives the timing of significant
biological events for this group of birds.
Swans and Geese
Trumpeter swans and one race of Canada goose (Western Canada
goose) are common breeders on Kenai Peninsula lowlands (Gabrielson and
Lincoln 1959, Hansen et ale 1971). There are no published reports
stating that either species have been observed nesting in the Grant
Lake area. Most nesting habitat for these species occurs westward of
the proj ect area where the Kenai Peninsula forms a broad low level
plain, dotted with numerous lakes and ponds. Whistling swans are
common migrants through the Kenai Peninsula area (USFS, unpublished)
but few if any, stop for appreciable periods of time. Migrational
routes tend to follow the coastline, seldom reaching far inland.
These birds generally nest in areas of extensive marsh land or
areas typified by numerous pot hole lakes and ponds. Such areas do
not exist within the Grant Lake study area. There is a possibility
that some birds may nest along Vagt Lake or the small ponds between
Grant Lake and Trail lakes since some suitable nesting habitat is
available, however, this use is unlikely.
geese or swans during the study period.
We did not observe any
A subspecies of Canada goose, the Aleutian Canada Goose, is note-
worthy as it is one of three Alaska birds listed as a threatened or
endangered species. Its breeding range is limited to the Aleutian
Islands hundreds of miles southwest of the study area. The fall
migration apparently proceeds nonstop directly across the Gulf of
Alaska to northern California. There are no known published records
of this marine-oriented species occurring on the Kenai Peninsula. It
118
..
... ..
•
... ..
•
" ..
•
..
iii
•
•
• -
..
IIIIIi
-
....
-
-....
-
-
..
-
-
,.
-
Figure 57. Timetable of significant biological events for
loons and grebes--southcentral Alaska.
H :>. Cl} H :>. H ..c H Cl}
H ell 4J S Cl} ..c ell ;:l .c ~ {J] Cl} ..c S ;:l H U "r1 Cl} :>. ;:l 4J 0 Cl} .:: ,.0 H H :>. c:: ~ on 0. 4J :> ro Cl} ro 0. (1j ;:l ;:l ;:l Cl) u 0 I-) ~ ::;:: <: ::;:: I-) I-) <: U) 0 :z
-f-Migration
Courtship -~
I I
Nesting -I-
Rearing I I I I
Source: Gabrielson and Lincoln 1959 .
Terres 1980.
Kessel and Gibson 1978.
119
H
Cl}
..c
~ u
Cl}
p
appears highly unlikely that any members of this race would occur
within the project area.
Ducks
Several species of ducks inhabit the Kenai Peninsula. Species
composition ranges from such common breeders as mallards and buffel-
heads to uncommon migrants such as the ringed-neck duck. We observed
a total of nine species of ducks within the project area during the
study period. Two species were known to breed and two others were
suspected of breeding in the area. An American widgeon nest contain-
ing six eggs were observed along the fringes of Upper Trail Lake, and
a female common goldeneye and a single downy young were observed on
Grant Lake. A pair of harlequins was observed on Inlet Creek and
appeared to be on a nesting territory. Additionally, a green-winged
teal was also seen along Inlet Creek and was assumed to be nesting.
The project area offers varied, though limited, types of duck
habi tat (Figure 58). There are areas, principally around Vagt Lake
and the bench ponds, which are suitable for such ground-nesting ducks
as mallards and American widgeons. In addition, there are standing
dead trees which are sui table for tree-nesting species such as mer-
gansers and goldeneyes. The latter areas are scattered throughout the
study area and are adjacent to water sources.
During the period of time when Grant Lake is iced over an area at
the outlet of the lake remains ice free (Figure 58). This area proved
to be a winter feeding area for a flock of mallards. As many as 30
birds were recorded in the opening. Upon closer examination of the
area, we found the lake bottom to be rich with white-water crowfoot.
Additionally, attached to the plants were an abundance of freshwater
snails, clams, and insect larva. Feeding areas become severly
restricted during winter, therefore any area with open water and a
ready supply of food may be critical to the survival of these birds.
With the exception of two pools in Grant Creek this is the only area
wi thin the entire proj ect area that remained ice-free and has an
abundant available food source throughout the winter of 1981-82.
In
project
summary, waterfowl
boundaries. There
nesting habitat is very limited within
were no concentrations of any breeding
120
-
-
.,..,
11'''
... -..
.. ' .\
...
... ..
.' ..
Ill·
.. , -.' -.. -... -•
KEY
~ Nesting habitat
o Ice-free area
birds, and only four out of 15 species that could nest there were
either known or suspected breeders (Figure 54). The ice-free area at
the outlet of Grant Lake appears to be an important winter feeding
area. We observed a minimum of 30 birds utilizing this small area
during the winter of 1981-82. Figure 59 presents a timetable of
significant biological events for ducks, geese, and swans.
Raptors
There are five hawk species, two species of eagle, and two falcon
species utilizing the Kenai Peninsula for breeding or migrational
purposes (Gabrielson and Lincoln 1959; USFS, unpublished). Quinlan
(1978) observed a breeding pair of goshawks near Kenai Lake. She also
saw red-tailed and sharp-shinned hawks during her studies. The USFS
(unpublished) stated that goshawks, sharp-shinned, marsh and red-
tailed hawks are uncommon residents of Chugach National Forest.
Rough-legged hawks have also been observed on the Kenai Peninsula,
although not within the project area (D. Spencer, pers. comm.).
A single sharp-shinned hawk was observed during field studies.
This bird \vas observed in a small drainage along the south shore of
Grant Lake's upper basin. The expanses of forested area provide
nesting habitat for goshawks, red-tailed hawks and sharp-shinned hawks
(Appendix D). Similarly, there are several cliffs which appear to be
sui table for nesting rough-legged hawks. Nesting habitat for marsh
hawks is mostly confined to the bog areas. The lack of observations
does not necessarily mean there were no birds wi thin project boun-
daries, but if present, numbers would probably be low.
A single American kestrel was observed on the northern slopes of
Grant Lake's upper basin above the beaver ponds at the east end.
gave no indications of breeding.
It
Bald eagles are regularly observed on the Kenai Peninsula (Gab-
rielson and Lincoln 1959), and a single bald eagle was observed along
Grant Lake during October 1981. Bald eagles regularly congregate near
any stream with salmonid runs, generally in proportion to the quality
of feeding areas and suitability of nesting habitat. The small Grant
Creek fish run is not of sufficient magnitude to sustain fish-eating
birds in concentrated numbers. No nesting platforms were found.
122
,11111
...
•• -..
...
•
iii ..
• ..
" •
•
• ..
• ..
• •
....
-
-
-
---..
---
• -.. -
• -..
-..
-
-
Figure 59. Timetable of significant biological events for
ducks, geese, and swans--southcentral Alaska.
~
~ H
H rtI
rtI ;:l
;:l H
~ ,.0
rtI Q)
'J ~
Migration
Nesting -'
Rearing
Molting
Source: Gabrielson and Lincoln 1959.
Bellrose 1980.
Kessell and Gibson 1979.
Hansen et al. 1971.
.c: ......
U OM
H H
rtI p..
::<; <:
I
123
H
(l) H
,J:l H (l)
l-J S Q) ~ til Q) ,J:l
Q) ~ ;:l l-J 0 Q)
~ ~ ...... bl) p.. l-J > rtI ;:l ;:l ~ Q) u 0 ~ 'J 'J 00 0 z
-I
-I-
H
(l)
,J:l
S
Q)
U
Q)
0
We regularly observed golden eagles, both juveniles and adults,
within the project area. First sightings occurred during aerial
surveys in April of 1982 and continued during each ensuing trip to the
project area. All the birds sighted were well within the alpine zone.
Lymann Nichols (pers. comm.) regularly observes golden eagles in the
Grant Lake area during his surveys of mountain goat and Dall's sheep.
He believes that they nest in the area but has never found a nest
site. Figure 60 depicts raptor nesting habitat in the project area.
Three races of peregrine falcon, two of which are endangered, are
present in Alaska. Falco peregrinus anatum and !. £. tundrius, the
endangered races, breed in moderate numbers throughout interior and
arctic Alaska, respectively (D. Roseneau, pers. comm.). Exposure to
pesticides apparently resulted in a sharp decline of the breeding
population (Cade and Fyfe 1970; Hickey 1969) though populations now
seem to be recovering (D. Roseneau, pers. comm.). Records presented
by Gabrielson and Lincoln (1959) indicated that these birds were once
fairly common migrants through the Kenai Peninsula. Few have been
seen in recent years. Most sightings are reported from recognized
migration corridors which parallel the outer coasts. It appears
unlikely that these birds occur within the project area. The nonen-
dangered race, !. £. peali, is primarily a coastal species and also
has not been sighted in the interior of the Kenai Peninsula.
Spruce Grouse
Four species of grouse inhabit Alaska, but only one, the spruce
grouse, occurs on the Kenai Peninsula. Spruce grouse have been
studied most intensively of all upland game birds on the Kenai Penin-
sula. Mixed forests of black and white spruce along with birch and
poplar, at varying successional stages provide ideal habitat (Ellison
1973, 1974; Weeden 1965). Homogenous stands of coniferous or decidu-
ous trees provide marginal habitat for spruce grouse.
The closed nature of the coniferous forests at Grant Lake may
preclude a high density of these birds. There are isolated areas of
mixed forest communities, principally along Trail lakes and along the
Vagt Lake trail, which offer the best spruce grouse habitat in the
project area (Figure 61).
124
'.""
'''''
"".
.,"
.. ~
....
..,'
.... '
.t'
11>',
..
...
.' ...
.'
-
i.
Figure 60. Potential nesting habitat
for raptors.
I:
\ .
I
I .. \ \
, . ,
Figure 61.
I I
Pruce grouse Primary s
I . .1 1,1
habitat.
. .
,-
-
-,.
--
---..
-..
----
-----
A total of only eight adults and one chick was observed, though
more than one chick in the area could be assumed. Production of
spruce grouse on the Kenai Peninsula is high. Average clutch size is
7.5 eggs. Hatching success has been reported at 91 percent (Ellison
1971, 1973, 1974). Chick survival to the fledgling stage is also
high. Ellison (1974) reported a 5.9 juvenile per adult ratio in July
and a 5.5 juvenile per adult ratio in August, indicating a minimal
loss to the brood. These high production figures, contrasted with the
low number of birds observed, also indicate a low population within
the study area.
The food habits of spruce grouse have been well documented
(Crechton 1963; Ellison 1966, 1976; Jonkel and Green 1963; Weeden
1965; Zwickel, Boog, and Brigham 1974). During winter months the
major food is spruce needles. As spring approaches and ground vege-
ta tion reappears, birds eat progressively fewer spruce needles and
begin consuming other foods. By summer the principal dietary items
include cranberry, notably those persisting from the previous fall, as
well as blueberry (leaf buds and leaves), unripened crowberries, and
lichens. Other major foods at this time include cranberries, Carex
seeds, and horsetail. As fall approaches, the diet gradually shifts
once again to spruce needles. Other fall foods include cranberries,
blueberry leaves and fruit, and seeds from various plants. All these
food items are available in varying amounts in the Grant Lake study
area (see botanical section).
Natural predators of spruce grouse which could inhabit the Grant
Lake area include hawk owls, great horned owls, and goshawks. Fox and
lynx, which are known to inhabit the area, are also predators.
Ellison (1974) witnessed a goshawk leaving a kill and commonly
observed them flying just below treetop searching for prey. Spruce
grouse will often feed near the treetops making them easy prey. The
effect of natural predation on popUlations is unknown. Hunting is
also a mortality factor near population centers or along roadways
(Ellison 1973, 1974). The extent of the hunting pressure in the Grant
Lake area is unknown. C. Judkins (pers. comm.) indicated a higher
population of grouse in years past. He believed the principal reason
for their recent decline was huntiny pressure. Better spruce grouse
127
habitat within the project area is adjacent to areas easily accessible
to hunters (Vagt Lake trail, mining roads, etc.).
In summary, the spruce grouse population in the Grant Lake area
appears low. The normally high production of spruce grouse on the
Kenai Peninsula and the low numbers observed by AEIDC personnel
indicate low numbers present. Perhaps this is due to a number of
factors. First, much of the study area is closed coniferous forest
providing only marginal habitat for any large density of birds.
Second, local hunting pressure may have a significant effect on local
populations of spruce grouse. Food resources do not appear to be
lacking, and predator populations do not appear high enough to limit
populations of spruce grouse. Figure 62 presents a timetable of
significant biological events or spruce grouse.
Ptarmigan
Three species of ptarmigan--willow, rock, and white-tail--inhabit
the Kenai Peninsula. Even though ptarmigan are highly coveted game
birds, few Alaskan studies have been made on them and no comprehensive
studies of these birds have been undertaken on the Kenai Peninsula.
During the studies at Grant Lake we did not conduct any specific
alpine surveys strictly assessing ptarmigan habitat. Rather, infor-
mation was gathered incidental to other surveys being conducted in the
alpine areas (e.g., bear denning surveys and botanical surveys).
Habi tat for ptarmigan is found throughout alpine or subalpine
zones near or above timberline. Because each species has different
habitat preferences, all three can, and often do, coexist at different
altitudinal levels on the same mountain. Weeden (1965) described
habitat preferences of the three species (Figure 63) .
The Grant Lake area provides habitat for all three species
(Figure 64) . Host ptarmigan habitat within the project area is
located along the south-facing slopes at and above 1,500 ft in
elevation. Our personnel observed many small flocks of willow and
rock ptarmigan both in the Grant Lake and Falls Creek drainages but no
large
birds.
flocks were seen. Most groups numbered between three and 10
Several single birds were also observed.
128
...
-
-
-
"".
...
.. ..
...
... ..
.... .. -
.. .. -..
.. -
..
• -..
-
..
.-..
-..
-
-
•
.... .. -
-
.....
--..
Figure 62. Timetable of significant biological events for
spruce grouse--southcentral Alaska .
l-< >. (JJ l-< >. l-< ..0 l-< (JJ
l-< '" +.l ~ (JJ ..0 '" ::l .c .-i Ul ..0 S ::l l-< U 'M (JJ >. ::l +.l 0 (JJ t:: ..0 l-< l-< >. t:: .-i co Po +.l :> '" (JJ '" Po <d ::l ::l ::l (JJ u 0 ...., ~ ~ ~ :z ...., ...., ~ UJ 0 :z I
Territory selection -r--
-Mating -~
Nesting -l---
Rearing
Brood dispersal I -
Source: Ellison 1971; 1973; 1974.
Weeden 1965.
129
l-<
(JJ
..0 S
(JJ
u
(JJ
p
I
~;~ason
5UN.'lER
~septcmber)
Terr3in
Vegetation
(General)
Relation to
Timberline
Territories
(Males)
Nests
Broods
WHiTER
~ber-April)
~~lliow PtarmiGan
Level ground with minor
relief features, or gen-
tle to moderate mountain
slopes and terraces.
Frequently at bottom of
valleys.
Luxuriant growth of
plants over most of
ground; shrubs usually
3-8', scattered in vari-
able quantities through
areas dominated by
grasses, sedges, 'mosses,
dwarf shrubs and low
herbs.
Usually at upper edge of
timber, among widely
scattered trees. 'Some-
times slightly below true
timberline where expanses
of treeless areas exist
because of poor drainage,
cold microclimate, etc.
Include shrubby and
"open" vegetation types
(with plants less than
eyelevel to ptarmigan).
Cocks habitually use
elevated points (rocks,
trees, hummocks) during
courtship. Males rest
during day in small
clumps of shrubs at
edges of open areas.
Protected by vegetation
(usually shrubby) from
above and side. One
open side bordering
open area. In the males'
territory.
Habitat simi liar to nest
sites. Young chicks
tend to use areas of
very low vegetation.
Older broods use
thickets for escape
cover. Moist areas pre-
ferred, with great floral
diversity.
Rock Ptarmlqan
Moderately sloping ground
in hilly country; middle
slopes of mountains.
Vegetative cover nearly
complete, but sparse on
driest and highest ex-
posed sites. Shrubs 1-4'
concentrated in shallow
ravines, on soil-creep
lobes, in hollows, etc.
Most plants less that 1'.
Creeping woody plants,
rosette plants, sedges,
lichens abundant and
dominant over wide areas.
Lowest breeding birds at
extreme upper fringe of
trees. Most birds from
100-1000' above local
timberline.
Higher proportion of
"open" vegetation than in
willow ptarmigan territor-
ies; Some contain no
shrubs. Cock sits on rock,
knolls, etc. wibh no over-
head vegetation during
active courtship periods
and occasionally in rest
of day.
Concealing vegetation
usually present over nest,
but small proportion of
nests with no overhead
concealment. Site very
similiar to those selected
by willow ptarmigan.
Similiar to nest sites.
Broods tend to congregate
in moist swales on ridges
and upper slopes. Dense
shrubs avoided. Young
escape primarily by fly-
ing out of sight over
knolls.
I-,'illo" thickets along Shrubby slopes at timber-
watercourses, areas of line. Rarely in riparian
t3l1 shrubs and scat-Hillows. In large open-
tcrcd trees at timber-ings of forest where
line; burns, muskegs, and shrubs (especially birch)
rlver banks below ti~ber-~re scattesert and project
llne. above snow. Often in
w~ndier areas than willow
ptarmigan, where snow is
shallower.
130
white-t~ilcd Ptarm~gan
steep slopes and ridges,
often around cirques and
high, stony benches:
ledges, cliffs and rocky
outcrops common.
Plants rarely form contin-
uous cover over ground,
except in most protected,
moist sites. Shrubs almost
absent, except for dwarf
forms. Wide variety of
plants present in small
quantities.
Above timberline. Occasion-
ally within 100-200' (verti-
cal) of last trees, usually
500-2000' above forest.
Unknown
Unknown. In Rocky Htn.
areas, usually on ledge or
in rocky areas beside a
bOUlder. Few nests in vege-
tation tall enough for con-
cealment.
Poorly known. Broods seem
to prefer most moist areas,
especially near snawpatches;
Chicks hide among rocks,
and broods rarely seen in
places without large rocks
and ledges.
Most stay above timberline.
Apparently feed on steep
cliffs, ridgetops, benches
where \,ind blows snow 3way,
or on shrub-strewn slopes.
Iii
'"I
" ..
"" ..
.'
.'
oriij,
•
I:
Figure 64. Ptarmigan habitat
(all species).
Food items for ptarmigan consist mainly of buds, twigs, leaves,
and flowers. Some animal matter is taken (insects) but not in large
quantities (Moss 1972; Weeden 1963, 1965). During winter willow buds
and twigs and birch catkins and twigs are the principal food items.
Addi tiona 1 small quanti ties of cranberries and aspen buds and twigs
are eaten. As snow retreats in spring, food sources increase in
diversity. Willow and birch are still a major portion of the diet;
however, other foods include horsetail tips, bearberries, fly larvae,
and caterpillers. During the summer months food items shift from
twigs and buds to include mostly fruit and leaves of blueberry. Other
foods include cranberries, crowberries, and flowers. During fall food
habits parallel those of spring, shifting back to buds and twigs. The
Grant Lake area provides all these foods though none in great abun-
dances (refer to botanical section).
Natural predators of ptarmigan known to inhabit the study area
include golden eagles, fox, lynx, coyote, wolf, marten, weasel,
ermine, and wolverine. Ptarmigan play an important role as a prey
species, and many carnivors depend on them, especially during the
winter months. The effects of such predation on populations have not
been determined. Hunting pressure in the area is unknown, though this
pressure is probably very light. Weeden (1965) said localized hunting
pressure has the potential of diminishing stocks. However, population
fluctuations are a natural phenomenon, and any reduction in numbers is
unlikely to be caused by hunting pressure.
Populations of rock and willow ptarmigan in the Grant Lake area
are probably average for the Kenai Peninsula as a whole. Nei ther
species were overly abundant but both were commonly observed in
appropriate habitats. Though no white-tailed ptarmigan were seen,
this does not mean that none occur since there is suitable habitat in
the study area. Figure 65 presents a timetable of significant
biological events for ptarmigan.
Cranes
The sandhill crane is the only crane species present in Alaska.
These birds favor large marshes for nesting purposes. Cranes migrate
••
-
-
.. .. .. ... -... -..
•
•
• ..
• -
----
over the Kenai Peninsula, and some nesting occurs in the western por-.. ..
132 _
I!'
-..
-..
-------..
---
Figure 65. Timetable of significant biological events for
ptarmigan--Alaska.
Migration
Territory selection
Mating
Nesting
Rearing
Presence on winter range
Source: \.J'eeden 1965.
DeLeonardis ND .
Roberts 1963.
~
~ ,... ,... ell
ell =' =' ,...
~ ,0
ell OJ
I-J f.:.<
.c ,...,
() -" ,.. ,..
(OJ P.
::<:: <>::
--
-f--
I
)
I
133
,...
OJ
,0
+-J S
til OJ
OJ ~ =' +-J
~ ~ ,..., bll Co
ell =' =' =' OJ
::E: I-J I-J <>:: tf.l
-~
1---
,... ,... ,... OJ OJ
OJ ~ ,0
,0 S
0 OJ OJ
+-J ? ()
() 0 OJ
0 Z p
I
tion; however, no nesting habitat is available within the project area
and no cranes were observed.
Shorebirds
There are numerous species of shorebirds on the Kenai Peninsula.
Reported nesting of semipalmated plovers are lacking within the
project area, though these birds are known to be fairly common inland
nesters on the Kenai Peninsula (Gabrielson and Lincoln 1959). We did
not observe any nesting during field studies. Black-bellied plovers
are more common along the coastal areas of the Kenai Peninsula. We
did not observe any black-bellied plovers, and the probability of
these birds occurring within the project area is low. We observed
five species of shorebirds during the 1981-82 field season. Of these,
four were assumed to be breeding (Figure 54). Both species of
yellowlegs were observed breeding in bogs on the bench between Grant
and Trail Lakes. The spotted sandpiper was along Inlet Creek and the
common snipe along Upper Trail Lake.
adult activity indicated nesting.
Though no nests were found,
The Eskimo curlew is listed on the endangered species list and
has occasionally been observed on the Kenai Peninsula. Accounts of
these birds are mainly historical, and many people believe the bird
may be extinct. Principal breeding grounds appear limited to the
arctic coastal plains. Few have been sighted in recent years.
Robbins et al. (1966) reporte,d one sighted in Galveston, Texas in
1959. Figgins (1904) reported the taking of a specimen in the Kenai
Mountains near Horner. He speculated that the species was a fairly
common fall migrant there.
Gulls and Terns
As with shorebirds, gulls are more common along the outer Kenai
Peninsula. Three species are known to travel inland (Figure 54). We
observed one species of gull, mew gulls, during field studies. They
did not appear to be nesting. Arctic terns are common nesters on the
Kenai Peninsula. They are often observed over Kenai and Tern Lakes,
both of which are only short distances from the project area. Sowls
et al. (1978) reported a breeding colony at Tern Lake. Several terns
134
'"
.....
"' ..
II1II'
....
..
..
.. ., ---•
,till
---..
-..
....
-..
-..
-
-..
-..
---..
-..
...
. -..
were observed within the project area during field studies, though no
nesting activities were seen.
grants.
Owls
Most of the birds seemed to be mi-
Five species of owls are known to inhabit the Kenai Peninsula
(Gabrielson and Lincoln 1959). Studies by Lewandoski and Rice (1980)
indicated that great horned owls are the most abundant species and
exhibit a preference for coniferous forest habitat. No owls were
observed during the field studies; however, suitable habitat occurs
throughout the Grant Lake area, and they probably are present.
Kingfishers
Gabrielson and Lincoln (1959) reported the belted kingfisher is
common throughout the state but never in large numbers. Kingfishers
were commonly observed by AEIDC personnel around the Trail lakes and
Grant Creek and it appears that the bird probably nests within the
area.
Flickers and Woodpeckers
One species of flicker and three species of woodpeckers reported-
ly occur in all suitable habitats on the Kenai Peninsula (Gabrielson
and Lincoln 1959; Quinlan 1978). We observed flickers and hairy and
northern three-toed woodpeckers on the bench between Grant and the
Trail lakes. There were many snags and dead standing trees in all
forest types throughout the study area. Most of these displayed
woodpecker sign, including feeding holes and excavated nesting holes .
Passerines
Two species of flycatcher are known to inhabit the Kenai Penin-
sula (Gabrielson and Lincoln 1959), but only Traill's flycatcher was
observed within project boundaries. Most were seen in the area be-
tween Grant and Trail lakes in mature forest.
Four species of swallow occur on the Kenai Peninsula. Both
violet green and tree swallows were abundant within the project area .
135
Lesser numbers of bank swallows were also commonly seen. All three
species were believed to be breeding.
Grey jays, black-billed magpies, and northern ravens were all
observed during our field studies.
study area in all vegetation types.
These were seen throughout the
Black-capped chickadees were abundant wi thin the mature spruce
forests. Flocks of up to 20 birds were common, many containing young-
of-the-year. Boreal chickadees are also found on the Kenai (Gabriel-
son and Lincoln 1959); however, none was seen within the project area.
We observed several dippers along the flowing creeks within the
proj ect area. Young were seen along both Grant and Inlet creeks,
indicating breeding in those areas.
Five species of thrush occur within project boundaries. They are
American robin, and varied, hermit, Swainson's and grey-cheeked
thrushes. The first four are common breeders, and the hermit thrush
is most conspicuous. Grey-cheeked thrushes were rarely observed but
were assumed to breed within the project area.
Both ruby-crowned and golden-crowned kinglets are known to occur
on the Kenai Peninsula (USFS unpublished; Gabrielson and Lincoln
1959). Ruby-crowned kinglets were abundant in the project area in all
coniferous forests.
A large flock of bohemian waxwings were observed feeding on
insects at the mouth of Grant Creek. Numerous young were present in
the flock.
We observed five species of warbler during field studies. They
were orange-crowned, yellow, myrtle, Townsend's and Wilson's warblers.
These were commonly seen throughout the upland scrubs and riparian
scrub communi ties. (Note that warblers were also observed on the
benchland between Grant Lake and Trail lakes in scrub communities too
small to be mapped individually.) All were suspected to be breeding.
No less than 16 species of the family Fringillidae (grosebeaks,
finches, sparrows, and buntings) are found on the Kenai Peninsula
(Gabrielson and Lincoln 1959). Eleven of these species were observed
during our field study.
sparrows, which were
r::ountain slopes.
The most abundant species were golden-growned
observed mainly in upland shrub along the
136
t1ll
....
....
....
..
..
..
..
...
• ..
--., -..
.... -..
-..
..
---
-
• -
• -..
-..
..
..
--
-
-
In summary, the avifauna of the Grant Lake area is varied, though
few birds are present in large numbers. The most important habitat
may be the ice-free areas in Grant Lake and Grant Creek. These areas
provided an abundant supply of food for a flock of mallards during the
winter of 1981-82. Spruce grouse numbers appear low within the
project area primarily due to the poor quality of the habitat.
Ptarmigan numbers are moderate; however, the use of this resource for
food or recreational hunting is slight, probably due to the difficulty
in gaining access to those areas where the birds are likely to be .
MAMMALS
The mammalian fauna of the study area is comprised of a nearly
equal mix of herbivores and carnivores (Figure 66). This circumstance
is not unique in Alaska and is representative of the mammalian fauna
of the Kenai Peninsula as a whole. In general,· the habitat is
marginal for mammals and supports few individuals of most species.
Notable exceptions are some south-facing alpine and sub-alpine com-
munities, which are important to resident bovids .
The mammalian fauna present is highly mobile; most species and
species groups are migratory moving seasonally between disparate
ranges in response to changing environmental and physiological condi-
tions. Movements between ranges are influenced to some degree by the
rugged physiography of the region and by the phenology of snow melt .
Several distinct traditional movement corridors of large mammals were
noted .
Figure 66 lists observed and/or likely components of the mam-
malian fauna, their scientific names, and their relative abundance in
the study area. The list represents a synthesis of published and
unpublished reports, interviews with long-time area residents, and the
results of our field surveys. The list is thought to be complete. As
noted previously, subjective population estimates have been provided
for select species and for species groups at Ebasco's request.
Limitations on these data are defined elsewhere.
Soricidae
Li ttle can be said of either the distribution or abundance of
shrews in the study area other than that they appear to be ubiquitous
137
Figure 66. Mammals of the study area.
.. ..
Occurrence Subjective
in Relative population Source
study area abundance estimates, .....
Summer, 1982
"'
Soricidae (Shrews)
Sorex cinereus P ? NE 1,2* iii'"
Sorex obscurus ? ? NE 2* 6 B ••
Sorex palustris ? ? NE 1.2*
Sorex vagrans ? ? NE 1* -Microsorex hoyi P ? NE 1,2 .'
VesEertilionidae (bats) ." Myotis lucifugus P ? NE 1,2 ....
LeEoridiae (hares)
Lepus americanus Y C NE 1,2,3 -
Sciuridae (Squirrels)
Marmota caligata Y C NE 1, 2, 3 ••
Tamiasciurus hudsonicus Y C NE 1,2,3
Glaucomys sabrinus P ? NE 1,2 .. ,
Castoridae (beavers) .'
Castor canadensis Y C 32-40 1,2,3 III
Cricetidae (New world mice) •
Clethrionomys rutilus Y ? NE 1,2,3 ... ' Microtus pennsylvanicus P ? NE 1 , 2,b~
Microtus oeconomous P ? NE 1,2** ..
Microtus gregalis P ? NE 1,2**
Lemmus sibiricus ? ? NE 2 ... '
Synaptomys borealis P ? NE 1,2 ..
ZaEodidae (Jumping mice) lIB,
Zapus hudsonicus ? ? NE 1,2 ..
Erethizontidae (porcupine)
Erethizon dorsatum Y C NE 1,2,3
.,
Canidae (wild canines) ..
Canis latrans Y C NE 1,2,3 ...
Canis lupus Y C 6 1,2,3
Vulpes vu1pes Y R NE 1,2,3 .. -Ursidae (bears)
Ursus americanus Y C 20-40 1,2,3 ..
Ursus arctos Y C < 10 1,2,3 ...
• 138 •
'ilid
•
,"'" ..
'-..
-.-
-.-
-.-
'-------------------
Figure 66 (continued). Mammals of the study area.
Occurrence Subjective
in Relative population
study area abundance estimates,
Summer!l982
Mustelidae (weasels and allies)
Martes americana Y R 10-100
Mustela ermine a Y C NE
Mustela nivalis Y C NE
Mustela vis on Y R <5
Gulo gulo Y C <5
Lutra canadensis Y R <5
Felidae (lynx)
Felis lynx Y R NE
Cervidae (moose)
Alces alces Y C 20-30
Bovidae (mountain goat and sheep)
Oreamnos americanus Y C 50
Ovis dalli Y C 30
Key
NE No Estimate
Yes (sight records extant)
Probable (suitable habitats occur in study area)
Unknown
Source
1,2,3
1,2,3
1,2,3
1,2,3
1,2,3
1,2
1, 2,3
1,2,3
1,2,3
1,2,3
Y
P
?
C
R
Common-species appears to be utilizing all available habitats
Rare-species is present in low density; it does not appear to
Sources: 1.
2.
be realizing the maximum potential of the habitats
Manville, R.H. and S.P. Young, 1965. Distribution of
Alaskan Hammals, U.S. Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Hildlife.
Circular 211. U.s. Government Printing Office; Hashington, D.C.
74 pp.
Hall, E.R. and K.R. Kelson; 1959. The tlammals of North America.
The Ronald Press Company, New York. 2 volumes.
3. AEIDC, this study.
* Sorex tracks observed but we were unable to differentiate them to
species level.
** Microtus tracks observed but we were unable to differentiate them to
species level.
139
in all forest and scrub associations. Evidence of the presence of
shrews in the study area was limited to the sighting of tracks during
the midwinter foot survey. Since all of the shrews known to inhabit
the Kenai have similar gaits, and since most, with the exception of
Microsorex hoyi, are about the same size, differentiation of tracks to
the species level is impossible based on track sets alone. Shrew sign
was more abundant in older forest communities, becoming conspicuously
less noticeable above timberline. Nowhere was it absent, however.
Vespertilionidae '
The little brown bat (Myotis lucifugus) is a common resident of
southcentral Alaska, but little is known of its life history.
Nocturnal in lower latitudes, these bats are crepuscular in Alaska.
Individuals are frequently observed in summer, hunting along stream
courses for insects. Most, if not all, little brown bats presumably
migrate to warmer latitudes with the onset of cooler weather in fall.
None was sighted by AEIDC personnel in the study area during the
course of this study but they undoubtedly occur.
Leporidae
Low numbers of snowshoe hares are found throughout all forest and
low-lying scrub associations of the study area (Figure 67). This
observation is based mainly on the results of the midwinter foot
survey which coincided with a period of ideal tracking conditions.
Two days prior to the survey the study area received a fresh layer of
light, powdery snow averaging 2 inches in depth. The snowfall was
sufficient to obliterate all tracks made up to that time. Tracks laid
subsequent to the snowfall were admirably preserved by the low ambient
daytime temperatures (OOP to -SOP) which prevailed through the
duration of the survey.
In dense, well stocked popualtions, snowshoe hares utilize well
defined runways to travel between portions of their territories. No
evidence of runways was found in the study area indicating that the
population is relatively low. In other areas of the Kenai Peninsula,
hare populations are reaching cyclic highs (Sparkes, pers. comm.); low
numbers in the study are may be indicative of poor range quality.
140
-
.,"
..
.,'
• ..
....
-...
-
-
----
Figure 67. Snowshoe hare and lynx habitat.
KEY
~ ~ Present
~ Concentration areas
---
Based on the tracking evidence, low-lying areas bordering Trail
lakes constitute the center of hare distribution and abundance in the
project area. suitable forage items in these areas are sparse
however, limiting their potential as hare habitat. Further, preferred
winter browse species, such as willow and birch, show evidence of
overcropping indicating that the population has exceeded the limited
carrying capacity of the range. Most browse regeneration in these
areas occurs as new growths of adventitious shoots. primary regenera-
tion through adventitious shoots is a widely accepted indicator of
over-use of the resource by hares.
Despite their relatively low numbers, hares appear to play an
important role in the energetics of the study area. Cursory field
examination of predator scats indicates that hares form the dietary
mainstay of coyotes and lynx. Scat examination also indicates that
hares are important dietary supplements for bears, wolves, and
wolverine.
This group of predators is relatively abundant in the study area
and the finding of hare remains in the majority of predator scats is
probably significant.
Sciuridae
Marmots are common :esidents of alpine tundra communities within
the study area (Figure 68). These animals are one of the most con-
spicuous mammals present. Numerous observations of both den sites and
animals were made during the course of our field studies. In general,
marmots ranged between altitudes of 1,500 to 3,000 ft throughout the
study area. Sign and sightings were most abundant in the upper Falls
Creek drainage, although other areas also showed marmot concentrations
(Figure 68). Some indication of predations on marmots by bears and
coyotes was noted, and marmots may play an important role in deter-
mining seasonal distribution of bears.
Red squirrels are conspicuous and present throughout the conifer
forests of the project area. Greatest squirrel activity was noted in
the areas of larger Sitka spruce timber.
142
-.. .. -
• ... ..
•
-•
III -
III ..
•
• --
..
•
Figure 63. Marmot distribution.
KEY
~ Present
1;1;1;1 Concentration areas
•
No flying squirrels were noted, however Grant Lake is within the
probable range of this species. The nocturnal and secretive nature of
these species renders them difficult to observe or to determine their
presence.
Castoridae
Although beavers (Castor canadensis) are one of the most abundant
furbearing mammals in Alaska, they are not common in the study area.
We found recent evidence of beaver to be scarce and with few excep-
tions confined to Grant Lake proper and its terminal tributaries.
Several factors are responsible for limiting study area beaver both
arealy and numerically.
High-quality forage items are severely limited in the study area.
Beavers subsist largely on the cambium layer of certain deciduous
trees and shrubs. Preferred deciduous foods are confined to plants in
the family Salicaceae (willo\Ol, aspen, cottonwood) and to a lesser
extent to birch (Yeager and Rutherford 1957; Murray 1961). In
general, beavers seem to prefer communities dominated by a species of
Populus, but willow communities are probably more stable and, hence,
more productive through time (Murray 1961). During summer, beaver
supplement their diet with considerable amounts of herbaceous and
aquatic vegetation.
Since the cambium layer represents a very small percentage of a
plants' total mass, beaver require large quanti ties of browse to
survive. The minimum daily maintenance requirement of captive adult
beaver has been calculated by Cowan et a!. (1957). During summer
individual adult beaver require a minimum of 1. 5 Ibs. of aquatic
vegetation per day; minimum winter requirements are set at 1.5 Ibs. of
green aspen or 1.7 Ibs. of green willow per day (Cowan et al. 1957).
The requirements of free-ranging beaver are undoubtedly higher
than those reported above. wild beaver probably utilize upwards of
5.5 Ibs. of suitable browse per day. This equates to roughly one ton
of browse per beaver per year (Yeager and Rutherford 1957). Assuming
that these figures are representative of daily food requirements, the
average beaver colony requires somewhere between 4 to 8 acres of aspen
144
.. -..
.. ..
.. ..
-.. -.. -
• -.. -.. -.. .. ..
•
• .. .. .. ..
III
• ---..
III
•
--
-..
-..
..
...
ill -.. -.. -•
•
....
-
-----..
-..
or 12 to 15 acres of willow per year to maintain vitality (Yeager and
Rutherford 1957).
Large, contiguous stands of high quality beaver forage items are
at a premium in the study area (Appendix D). Areas with suitable
forage are limited to the lower reaches of Inlet Creek and its broad
delta, the outwash plains of a few of Grant Lake's terminal tribu-
taries and the lower reaches of Grant and Falls creeks. Few of these
areas have potential as beaver habitat, however. Most stream courses
in the study area are ill-suited for beaver colonization. Stream
bottoms and stream and lake banks are usually comprised of large
cobble or exposed bedrock, which are not conducive to either dam
construction or maintenance or to the establishment of subterranean
lodges. Cobble basements are often permeable to water, negating or
seriously compromising the purpose of the dam (Boyce 1974). Most
streams in the study area also experience recurring catastrophic
freshets. Floods pose formidable problems for beaver and are a
significant limiting factor throughout their range (Rutherford 1952;
Yeager and Rutherford 1957) .
Only one area within the project boundaries meets all of the
criteria of prime beaver habitat. This area centers on the northern
corner of Inlet Creek's delta. It is bordered on the west by Grant
Lake, on the north by steep mountain slopes, and on the south by a
distributary of Inlet Creek (Figure 69). The entire area used by
beaver occupies the foot of a large active avalanche shoot. Evidence
of the influence of snowslides on the vegetation is readily apparent.
Recurring snowslides may be advantageous for beaver by helping to
retard the sere, which is dominated by a willow association.
Four lodges occur in this area (Figure 70); only one appears to
be active (Figure 70, number 1). Beaver activity in this area centers
on a small fluvial system which apparently had its origins as a
distributary of Inlet Creek. At present, it is not part of the Inlet
Creek system, per se, but its headwaters remain close to active
channels of Inlet Creek and it may be under influence of groundwater
flow from the parent system.
This site is central to the maintenance of beaver in the project
area for several reasons. First, it is surprisingly stable. Isolated
145
, . ,
)
I
/.
I
~ I ,..'
Figure 69. Beaver distribution, 1981-1982.
KEY
~ Evidence of beaver activity
during the field studies
~ p:in~iPatl habitat
o 3.
I
I I
Figure 70. Beaver lodges.
from Inlet Creek, it is spared the ravages of periodic floods. Food
is also abundant and will remain so unless the areas' hydrology is
changed. Snowslides, which periodically lay waste to the area's
vegetation, retard the successional sere in favor of a densely stocked
willow community. Second, substrates in this area are comprised
chiefly of a thick layer of organic debris, facilitating dam and lodge
construction and maintenance. The thick organic mat probably owes its
origins to the influence of snowslides.
Small numbers of beaver also reside in Grant Lake, but these
habitats are low quality and appear incapable of sustaining beaver
over time. Basement materials of the lake banks are comprised of
either glacial alluvium or exposed bedrock. As a consequence, lodges
are constructed directly on the bank (Figure 70, numbers 4 through 8)
where they are exposed to the influences of predators, floating ice in
spring, waves, avalanches, and lake level fluctuations resulting from
periodic heavy rains and spring breakup. Food items are particularly
scarce along the shore of Grant Lake (Appendix D), forcing beaver to
consume unpalatable browse such as alder. Although unpalatable
species are favored construction materials, beaver seldom consume them
except in the most trying of situations (Slough 1978).
The lack of sui table shelter and food combine to limit beaver
potential in Grant Lake proper. Only one of the lakes lodges (Fig-
ure 70, number 7) showed signs of recent residency, and none showed
any evidence whatsoever of winter food caches, either past or present.
Food caches are important to beaver since they cannot survive the
winter without them. Their absence in Grant Lake is probably signi-
ficant.
Grant Lake beavers are probably the offspring of the colony
located on the delta of Inlet Creek. Sometime between their second
and third year young beavers are driven from natal territories by
their parents (Boyce 1974). Young apparently disperse in nonrandom
fashion, as they are often found considerable distances from the
nearest food or water source. Intraspecific combat is common between
dispersing young and adult pairs on established territories and
interlopers are often killed (Boyce 1974). Since young disperse in
all directions without regard to habitat availability, there is some
148
.... -..
-..
.. .. ,
., ..
• ..
• ...
• -
•
•
•
.. .. -
•
!111
-
-'.
-,-
-
--
-
-..
-
-
-
possibility that Grant Lake beavers corne from outside the system.
Considering local physiography and the area's relative isolation from
other suitable beaver habitat, however, it seems likely that Grant
Lake beavers are offspring from the colony located at the head of the
lake.
We found eight beaver lodges in the study area; all but two
appeared to be abandoned (Figure 70, numbers 1 and 7). In addition,
we found a pair of beavers on Grant Lake engaged in what appeared to
be lodge-building activities (Figure 70, number 9). These animals
repeatedly tail slapped upon detection of the survey boat and refused
to leave the area when we stopped to investigate. One individual
repeatedly closed with the boat, splashing water into it. A single
freshly cut alder bough, approximately 1. 5 cm. in diameter at the
base, was found anchored into the lake bottom. Their strong defense
and the anchored stick leads us to believe they were in the process of
lodge building at this site. As with other Grant Lake lodges, the
site lacked appreciable food resources and offered little protection
from either predators or the elements. A single beaver was also
observed in Lower Trail Lakes near its outlet.
The study ended before food cache construction began, so we are
unable to say with certainty how many of the lodges in the area are
actually active and how many are relict. Estimates of average numbers
of beaver per colony in Alaska vary from four (Libby 1954) to five
(Koontz 1968, Boyce 1974). Assuming that all lodges are active and
that all represent colonies of average size, then somewhere between 32
and 40 beaver reside in the area. This figure is probably highly
inflated considering the lack of suitable habitat and scant evidence
of recent use by beavers. While only two of the lodges showed
evidence of current occupancy, there is a possibility that all were
occupied. Without a food cache survey little more can be said .
In sum, lack of prime habitat is a serious constraint for local
beavers. Predation may also be an important limiting factor con-
sidering the exposed nature of most lodges, but no evidence of
predation was found. In other areas of North America beaver are
subject to heavy predation by wolves (Allen 1979; Mech 1970). This
149
does not appear to be the case on the Kenai Peninsula, however
(Peterson and Woolington 1979a, b· , Peterson 1982). Beaver remains
were present in only 5 percent of 542 randomly collected wolf scats
from the Kenai Peninsula (Peterson and Wollington 1979a). other
predators of minor importance to beaver population biology include
black and brown bears, wolverine, lynx, and coyotes (Libby 1954); all
occur in the study area.
Beaver are the most widely distributed and common furbearer in
all of Alaska. Some limited trapping for beaver does occur in this
area, but we have been unable to define the level of trapping.
Interviews with local residents indicate that trapping intensity
varies considerably between and within years, much depending on market
conditions. At least one beaver trapper was active in the area during
the winter of 1981-82. Based on the evidence at hand, beaver trapping
is more a recreational pursuit than a commercial one.
Figure 71 details some of the important milestones in the
seasonal cycle of beavers.
Cricetidae
Tracks of microtine rodents were observed on snow in Harch
throughout the study area to the 2,000 ft level, which was the altitu-
dinal limit of foot surveys.
No individual microtines were trapped or observed. The species
probably present in the area include H. oeconomus and H. gregalis.
Three specimens of the northern red-backed vole were seen in July
1982 on the Vagt Lake trail. This is a common mammal throughout the
Kenai Peninsula.
Two species of lemmings may occur in this region, however, they
were not verified within the study area.
While the muskrat occurs on the Kenai Peninsula, no evidence of
their presence in the study area was noted. The region does not have
extensive areas of suitable muskrat habitat.
Erethizontidae
porcupines are common throughout the coniferous areas of the
Kenai Peninsula, particularly in the mountainous regions near timber-
150
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Figure 71. Timetable of significant biological events for
beaver--Alaska.
Breeding
Parturition -
young disperse
Food cache construction
Source: Boyce 1974.
Libby 1954; 1957 •
Murray 1961.
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151
,...
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line. Populations are highly variable and fluctuate radically over
relatively long intervals. Occasional scattered porcupine sign was
noted in the study area, generally at altitudes of 500 to 1,000 ft.
The species is not abundant at this time within the project area.
Canidae
Three types of wild canines range in the Grant Lake-Falls Creek-
Trail lakes regions: wolf, coyote, and red fox. The wolf is a
frequent transient; the coyote is probably a resident or common
transient in the area; and the red fox is a rare or occasional visitor
l ..
or recent resident. In'"
The wolf is indigenous to the Kenai Peninsula and existed in
significant populations prior to 1900. A period of intensive trapping
and poisoning operations followed and by 1915 the wolf was essentially
exterminated from the Kenai. The species was apparently absent from
the Kenai until the late 1950s. Following the end of predator control
programs wolf populations on the adjacent mainland increased and
recolonization of the Kenai Peninsula ensued. By 1975 wolves occupied
most of the available habitat on the Kenai Peninsula. Peterson and
Woolington (1982) reported an early winter population of 185 wolves
2 occupied 13,700 km of the Kenai Peninsula.
The wolves in Grant Lake area are probably the group known
as the Mystery Creek pack (Peterson 1982), ranging in the mountain
area from Mystery Creek as far east as Grant Lake or perhaps on
occasion as far as Nellie Juan Lake.
wolves have been occasionally reported and taken in the Grant
Lake-Trail Lakes area in recent years. On January 13, 1982, AEIDC
biologist Spencer and charter pilot Pleuger, while on aerial survey,
saw six wolves (two dark phase, four light phase) along the north
shore of Grant Lake. In late February, 1982 the Babcock mountaineer-
ing party, en route up Lark Mountain by the west ridge, observed two
wolves harassing il moose along the shore of Grant Lake (Babcock, pers.
comm.) . Tracks were also noted in February and March around the
northwest corner of Grant Lake and east of Vagt Lake. A single wolf
was observed in the upper valley in Inlet Creek during the April 16,
1982 aerial bear denning survey. Back tracking of the animal revealed
152
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it had been coursing low-lying bench areas at timberline. Numerous
tracks of mountain goats occurred in this area at this time and it
seems probable that the wolf was actively hunting them.
The wolf is an effective predator on a large number of animals,
including moose, Dall's sheep, mountain goat, snowshoe hare, beaver,
and other canids such as coyote and fox. No wolf kills were noted in
the Grant Lake-Falls Creek area during the brief field observational
periods of this study; however, moose remains were found in several
wolf scats.
The coyote is a more recent inhabitant of the Kenai Peninsula,
apparently colonizing the area in the early 19305. It increased
rapidly in numbers and has been a prominent and widely distributed
member of the local fauna since then.
Coyote sign was noted over much of the area on all field trips.
Like the wolf, the coyote is wide ranging and will travel and hunt
throughout all habitat types of the study area. It is probably a much
more frequent transient or resident of the Grant Lake-Falls Creek area
than the wolf. The delta of Inlet Creek was a center of coyote
activity during the winter of 1982 where they were hunting for hares
and ptarmigan. A frequently used coyote travel route was noted on the
benchland between Falls Creek and Grant Lake in the timberline region
at the base of the mountain slope.
The red fox is an indigenous member of the Kenai Peninsula fauna.
Historical accounts indicate that it may have been abundant at one
time. This is no longer the case. Trapping and poisoning activity in
the early part of this century (aimed at the elimination of the wolf)
apparently included the red fox as an associated casualty. As far as
is known fox populations on the Kenai have remained low through much
of this century. The animal has not been taken nor observed by any of
the trappers known to operate in the Grant Lake-Falls Creek region. A
single series of fox tracks was noted by AEIDC on March 1, 1982 in the
Vagt Lake area. The red fox, however, is apparently only a rare
transient in the study area .
153
Ursidae
Si tuated in the southwest portion of the Kenai Peninsula, the
Grant Lake project area is mostly comprised of high mountains, often
capped with ice fields and surrounded by narrow, deep-gorged valleys
wi th short, swift streams and timbered lowlands. Conifers are the
dominant vegetation with Sitka spruce, white spruce, and hemlock the
most common. Timberline is relatively low, graduating with increased
elevation into shrubs and alpine vegetation zones. The diverse
habitats resulting from the area's varied topographic features provide
niches for both black and brown bears.
Black bears are one of the most widely distributed and abundant
large mammals on the Kenai Peninsula. The timbered and brushy areas
of the region afford good protective cover, which probably accounts
for their ability to withstand intensive hunting pressure typifying
this part of southcentral Alaska. Brown bears, on the other hand, are
sparsely distributed throughout much of the region. The Grant Lake
project area is peripheral to the Kenai Peninsula proper and mountain-
ous areas of Prince william Sound, where brown bear density is much
higher because of better habitat conditions. The following narrative
discusses specific population and habitat characteristics of each bear
species.
Brown Bear. Taxonomically the terms "brown" and "grizzly" are
synonymous and for the purpose of this report, the term brown bear
refers only to a single classification and should not be construed as
a subspecific designation. The terrestrial part of the Grant Lake
study emphasized the delineation of habitats and general movement
patterns of bears as inferred from the observed seasonal (relative)
distribution and abundance. Field data obtained during fall and
summer ground-level surveys and three aerial surveys conducted early
in spring provided information on the relative number and seasonal
distribution of brown bears in the study area.
Depending upon biological needs and environmental conditions,
brown bears utilize two or more activity areas that can be viewed
merely as different portions of one all encompassing range. Berns and
Hensel (1972) noted that under optimal habitat conditions, activity
154
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areas varied in size from several square kilometers to more than
2 30 km. Distances between given activity areas may vary markedly
since individual bears may incorporate one or several drainages as
part of their year-round range (Berns and Hensel 1972). Similar
surveys conducted by the ADF&G in other areas of optimal habitat
showed that brown bear movements are confined to limited areas and
movements in excess of 48 km were a rarity (ADF&G 1973).
Considering the study area's physiography and it's proximity to
human developments and the limited amounts of usable habitat and
forage resources within the confined 117 km 2 Grant Lake project area,
brown bear numbers would expectly be low, representing but a fraction
of the region's total population. The 1981-82 field studies confirmed
this expectation. During the study period we observed only 16 widely
scattered sets of brown bear tracks and sighted only three indivi-
duals; a family group (female with one yearling) and a mature single-
ton . ADF&G authorities reported that insufficient forage probably
primary factor for the low density of annual brown bears in this
region (ADF&G 1973). The highest reported brown bear harvest since
1961 for the years 1976, 1980, and 1981 for all of Game Management
Unit 7 (Seward) was three bears. For the past 21 years, the annual
harvest averaged approximately one bear per year (ADF&G 1982) .
Considering the intensive hunting pressure in southcentral Alaska
these extremely low harvest figures probably reflect the scarcity and
low density of brown bears in this region.
The number of brown bears probably range from about 7 to 25
animals in a given year within the Grant Lake project area, which
probably represent a small segment of the region's total brown bear
population. The period of greatest activity noted during this study
occurred in the last half of May, coinciding with den emergence and
breeding activities. The May 21 aerial survey, when three brown bears
and eight individual sets of brown bear tracks were noted, suggested
that upwards of 10 different brown bears visited the Grant Lake
project area around mid-May. Another low density indicator concerned
the absence of established bear trails, which under ideal habitat
conditions occur along water courses, prominent ridgelines, and
connecting routes of adjacent drainage systems. In sum, few, if any
155
brown bears reside year-round within the Grant Lake project area and
available information indicates that no more than 10 individual bears
utilized the study area during the spring and early summer periods of
1982. Given the species wide ranging characteristics and low numbers
throughout the eastern half of the Kenai Peninsula we believe that as
many as 25 brown bears may be present in the study area in any given
year. Interchange between regional subpopulations is relatively
intensive, and use of the area by transient bears is common and is
primarily related to the seasonal availability of limited food
resources. It should be emphasized that brown bear numbers are not
constant.
Seasonal activities can be principally categorized into feeding,
resting, socializing, traveling, and denning behaviors. Feeding and
socializing, as distinct activities, greatly influence the extent of
movement. Social activity includes dominance and sexual interactions,
the latter of which often impels breeding animals to travel consider-
able distances. Feeding activity includes stalking, catching, and
eating prey and grazing or eating parts of plants. This takes a large
part of the activity budget expendited in specialized habitats.
Principal feeding habitat in the project area occurs along the
south and southeast slopes above the north side of Grant Lake and it's
upper valley and in the upper part of the Falls Creek drainage.
Habitable terrain is limited spatially by extensive snowfields,
glaciers, exposed bedrock, slide and avalanche areas, and surface
water. As a consequence, usable habitats are in the form of small
discontinuous units having low to moderate forage values.
Forage resources are primarily herbaceous plants (carex-forb
meadow variety) found in scattered sites above the north side of Grant
Lake and at intermediate elevations of the upper valley's north side;
marmot colonies located in most alpine and subalpine areas particular-
ly along the south side of Solar and Lark mountains; and at least
three salmon species known to spawn in Grant Creek. Figure 72 depicts
the location of major forage resources considered to be of low
quality.
Alpine slopes are sparsely vegetated, xeric, and probably of low
fertility as a result of severe environmental conditions. Exposed to
156
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Major forage resources for
brown bears.
I[fjljJ Carex forb meadow
~Alpine ;feeding habitat
~// Major marmot Lcolonies
~ Salmon stream
.. ' ( \.: r -£ ~~ $'
strong winds and deep snow, vegetated areas appear limited to scat-
tered locales protected by knolls, swales, and the leeward aspects of
some ravines. The willow field-subalpine meadow complex on the north
side of the upper valley forms a transition zone between the true
alpine and lower alder communities. Fertile soil and abundant
moisture make it high in plant productivity, which probably accounts
for better foraging, but it is limited in size. The south side of the
upper valley supports little vegetation except for a discontinuous
alder belt, extending along timberline and upward in less precipitous
ravines. These slopes are comprised of a glacial rubble and barren,
late-snowfall extremely low plant productivity. On the south side of
Grant Lake north-facing subalpine slopes contain an abundance of alder
interspersed wfth streamlets, ravines, and avalanche chutes. At lower
elevations, coniferous cover occurs along the crest of larger rock
outcroppings as well as between ravine and slide areas.
The scattered, low-quality forage resources suggest that the
project area is used mainly by transient brown bears. Bear activity
in the Grant and Falls Creek drainages evidently peaks several weeks
after den emergence in late May when principal activities consist of
resting and interacting with other bears while moving randomly along
the slopes near the snowline. Interdrainage travel is more pronounced
during the breeding season and considerable interchange, at least
among older-aged animals, probably occurs between the Grant Lake basin
area and adjacent drainage systems, particularly between Trail Creek
and Paradise valleys.
Denning habitat was delineated on the basis of sightings of
individual bears and their sign at the time of den emergence and on
the basis of certain geomorhic and vegetation charcteristics. Three
replicate helicopter surveys, flown April 16 and 30, and May 21, were
timed to assess den emergence activity and relate those findings to
what was believed to be potential denning habitat. A total of 8
survey hours expended on the three surveys resulted in three brown
bears and 10 different sets of tracks observed.
Bear tracks first noted on April 30 were at two widely separate
places in the Grant Lake area. Other significant observations
included the family group and mature singleton noted during the May 21
158
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helicopter survey. The increased activity during the three week
interval implied that emergence activity peaked around mid-May.
Lateness of spring and extensive foul weather likely delayed den emer-
gence and altered spring movement activities so results may not be
representative •
Activity chronology and factors known to affect den site selec-
tion enabled the subjective delineation of three units of potential
denning habitat (Figure 73 [Note: only those areas considered to have
potential as denning habitat were surveyed; therefore this survey is
less than the total study area.]). Unit 1 appears to have the most
potential, based on amount of observed bear activity and the suitable
slope conditions. Soil/rock substrate and vegetation components
essential to den site selection are also present. On the south-facing
slopes paralleling the north side of the lake basin and lower half of
the upper valley, denning would likely occur at an altitudinal range
of 360 to 750 m. The best habitat of this unit contains the hilly
terrain bordering the alder zone located above the lower half of the
upper valley. Extensive areas of surface bedrock, precipitous slopes,
and sparse vegetation cover along the westward section reduces habitat
potential.
Unit 3 extending along the south-facing slope into the upper part
of the Falls Creek valley is considered to have some potential as
denning habitat. Bear activity occurred in this area during the den
emergence period. Snowpack at the altitude of Unit 3 (750-900 m)
should be of sufficient depth, composition, and duration to be usable
for denning .purposes and good drainage (slope) and open shrub com-
munities could be an added inducement for denning in this unit;
however, available space for denning is limited, and in all prob-
ability the unit is not heavily used.
The large volume of surface bedrock, precipitous terrain, and
sparse vegetation greatly reduces the denning potential along the
southern slopes of the lake basin and upper valley. Available denning
habitat in Unit 2 is limited to those areas having less rugged relief,
mainly ridges paralleling the lower part of the two lateral tribu-
taries entering the southeast section of Grant Lake. The soil
substrate, slope, and vegetation provides suitable conditions for den
159
, .
i
~ a-. o
73. Primary denning
habitat for brown
bears.
Denning habitat
----Total study area boundary
f ar ~ -:bou'~ ~ -1Y
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....
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-
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construction. Rocky outcroppings and large boulders provide some
caves or natural cavities for denning, but these sites are limited in
number. westward of Unit 2, the slopes are subj ected to heavy ava-
lanches and are without suitable substrate to have significant poten-
tial as denning habitat.
2 Approximately 11 percent of the total 105 km bear survey area
provides habitat suitable for brown bear denning (Figure 74). The
2 most important habitat is present in the 5.5 km Unit 1, which
represent about 47 percent of the total habitat available for denning
purposes. It seems reasonable to assume that no more than one or two
family groups and possibly two or three solitary animals would den
within the Grant Lake project area in any given year.
Certain geomorphic features of the Grant Lake region probably
affect movement patterns. High glaciated mountains may prevent or at
least deter bears from moving directly south and east of the project
area to adj acent Paradise and Snow River drainages. Similarly, the
glaciated rugged terrain north of the proj ect area probably impedes
movements between Moose Creek and upper portions of the Trail Creek
drainage. These obstacles probably impel brown bears to move lateral
to valley systems to reach seasonal activity areas in adjacent
drainage systems .
The slopes west of So lars and Lark mountains and the ridge parti-
tioning Grant and Trail lakes, constitute the principal travel routes
to and from the Grant Lake valley. Of secondary importance to inter-
drainage travel is the pass intersecting the headwater areas of Moose
Creek and the Snow River . The extent these areas are used remains
unknown . The absence of interdrainage bear trails reflect the low-
density status of the regional brown bear population rather than the
absence of traditional movement patterns. Movement patterns exhibited
by brown bear after den emergence, are often erratic with some animals
negotiating almost any t:errain by the most direct route to reach
adjacent drainages. Track observations during the May 21 reconnais-
sance indicated thC1t vertical movements occurred between the upper
part of Falls Creek drainage and the Grant Lake valley and
tributaries of the Moose Creek drainage. Localized travel between
activity areas in the Grant Lake drainage are both lateral and
161
Figure 74. Location and amount of potential brown bear
denning habitat within the Grant Lake study area.
Grant Lake Study Area Square
Denning Habitat Location Miles Acres Hectars
Unit 1 North Grant Lake 2.15 1,376 556
Unit 2 Southeast Grant 1.10 704 285
Lake
Unit 3 North Falls Creek 1.20 768 310
Total area of Lake Basin; 4.45 2,848 651
denning units Falls Creek
Total area surveyed 40.20 25,728 10,411
162
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vertical to mountain slopes in response to the seasonal availablility
of food sources. Figure 75 depicts prominent activities associated
with seasonal range uses.
The reduced spatial distribution and low-quality food sources
coupled with the limited denning habitat appears to be the major
limiting factors of the regional brown bear population. Residential
development bordering the Trail Lake system and extensive use of
commercially important fisheries has had a limiting effect on brown
bear numbers, but from an historical standpoint the brown bear
population probably has never been substantive in this area, a situa-
tion primarily attributed to low forage production .
Black Bear. Because black bear have an affinity for forested areas
and occupy less range, habitat components are less complex than those
of brown bears. Nonetheless, little is known about the habitat
requirements of black bear in Alaska. A ground-level reconnaissance
during the fall, spring, and summer periods was made to assess
relative abundance and general distribution of black bears within the
Grant Lake project area. Track, scat, and actual bear sightings were
recorded in an attempt to determine the intensity of habitat use
relative to the location of proposed project facilities. Black bear
activities within the project area are generally associated with
valley floors, small alluvial plains, lakeshores, and intervening
stream systems. These components are limited in the project area.
Recreational facilities and the Moose Pass population center are often
visited by foraging black bears under cover of spriryg foliage.
A total of nine black bears and two track sets, and about 10
scats, presumably of black bear origin, was noted during the three
f,ield investigative periods. The majority of bears and sign was
observed near Grant Lake during the June 1982 reconnaissance. Concur-
rently, only one black bear was sighted in the timbered area down-
stream of the Grant Lake outlet; two track sets were noted along the
edge of Lower Trail Lake during the October 1981 reconnaissance. Scat
sign was evenly distributed within an altitudinal range of 150 to
300 m in the area between and around the lake systems. Oddly enough,
163
Figure 75. Timetable of significant biological events for
brown bear--southcentral Alaska.
>. H
<J) >. H .0 H eel ~ S eel ;:l .c ~ en <J)
;:l H CJ T'I <J) >. ;:l ~ t:: .0 H H >. t:: ~ be P. eel <J) eel P. eel ;:l ::l ::l <J) ....., ~ :z ..:: :z 'J ....., ..:: (f.l
Denning
Breeding -
Alpine foraging I I
Subalpine foraging
Lowland foraging
Interdrainage travel I
Source: Wilson et al. 1980.
164
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no evidence of black bear activity in the upper Grant Lake valley was
discovered during this study.
As with brown bears, the activity patterns of black bears appear
to be regulated by the temporal and spatial distribution of food
resources. In the Grant Lake project area, black bears probably move
from one area to another back again, following essentially the same
route without establishing permanent trails. This may be an efficient
foraging pattern related to exploitation of food resources having a
patchy distribution. Under optimal conditions, a permanent trail
network connotes stable and concentrated food resources as well as a
high popUlation density. Food resources within the Grant Lake project
area appears to be moderate at best.
Studies show that individual black bears occupy a relatively
small range most of their lives. Activity patterns are generally
stable and habitual from year to year and, depending upon age/sex
specific characteristics, home range size was found by some research-
ers to vary from 60 to as small as 5 km 2 (Reynolds and Beecham 1980;
Modafferi 1978). Preferred spring foods consist of grasses, sedges,
and scavange, including garbage.
Information obtained through field reconnaissance can be used to
speculate on number black bear numbers present in the Grant Lake
proj ect area. Based on actual sightings, track and scat sign, it
would be reasonable to assume that 20 to 40 black bears range within
the Grant Lake project area. Considering the area I s size and the
relatively small home range size of black bear compared to brown bear,
it seems reasonable that 10 to 15 animals range within the project
area year-round, and plus or minus 20 black beurs intermittently visit
the project area as transients. AEIDC biologists believe that the
2 density averages one bear per 40 km In a black bear study in north-
western Prince William Sound, Modafferi (1978) estimated a higher
2 densi ty of one bear per 1. 8 km in the Parks Creek subunit of his
Prince William Sound study area, which may be attributed to better
habitat and forage resources.
The lower alpine zone near the shrubline of Grant Lake and the
ridge between the lakes is important habitat during July and August.
165
Bears primarily move back and forth from the Trail lakes lowlands to
this zone. Al though black bears rarely venture far from adequate
shrub or tree cover, they move further up the open south-facing slopes
to feed upon new, succulent vegetation (forbs and sedge) as the summer
progresses. During late July and in August, salmon present in Grant
and Falls creeks are sought by black bears. Because salmon are
unavailable in great numbers, bears intermittently forage in the
subalpine zone until later in August when lowland berries become the
prominent dietary attraction. Elderberry, blueberry, rosehips, salmon
berries as well as low and highbush cranberries are probably utilized
heavily at this time. Figure 76 gives the chronology of range use.
Black bear exhibit a higher degree of variability than brown bear
in den site selection--an adaptation that probably reflects habitat
diversity throughout their continental range. Protected sites are not
always selected, however, as several authorities have reported finding
females with young in open depressions under boughs of coniferous
trees or in dense thickets (Pelton et al. 1980). The advantage of
tree cover and subsurface protection greatly reduced heat loss during
cold winters. Black bear dens usually are simple depressions beneath
large trees, stumps, and under boulders or the base of rocky outcrop-
pings. Occasionally, man-made structures such as drainage culverts or
cabin subspace, may be used as winter den sites.
Black bear dens found on the Kenai Peninsula by Schwartz and
Franzman (1980) were on tree-covered slopes of moderate steepness.
Reuse of the same den and construction of new dens in old sites were
evidently commonplace. Denning characteristics of Grant Lake black
bears are probably similar.
Likely denning habitat in the Grant Lake area would include
spruce-covered slopes and hillsides. Wet places and open terrain
would likely be avoided as places to den. Primary denning habitat for
black bears probably occurs in Trail lakes and Moose Creek valleys,
whereas the forested habitat along the Trail lakes appears less suit-
able because of human disturbance and use of the area as a principal
route by bears traveling along the valley floor and between connecting
tributary systems. The ridge between Grant and Trail lakes south
166
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Figure 76. Timetable of significant biological events for
black bear--southcentral Alaska.
~ ~ OJ
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;J ~ u ''''; OJ ~ ;J +J ~ .D ~ ~ ~ ~ rl 00 p..
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Denning
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I
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Subalpine foraging
Lowland foraging I
Interdrainage travel I I
Sou~ce: ~:cdaifer::' ~:;70.
Schwartz and Franzmann 1980.
167
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including Ptarmigan Creek drainage would appear to be usable denning
habitat for those black bears resident to this locale year-round.
In contrast to the propensity of brown bears to move laterally
along valley bottoms and across alpine slopes, black bear movements
tend to be vertical wi thin the same drainage and closely associated
with shrub and tree cover. For this reason, the woodland portion of
the study area is more important to black than brown bears.
The lack of stable, concentrated food resources and continuous
interaction with the human inhabitants of Moose Pass constitute the
most prominent limiting factors to black bears in the Grant Lake area.
Increased human activity would likely trigger a decline in the number
of resident bears, but transient animals would probably be little
-
affected over the long term. The adaptability of black bears to the
human element implies that the current number of black bear represent
a stationary population.
A less serious limiting factor appears to be the number of bears
sacrificed in defense of life and property and those harvested
incidental to the taking of other game species by sport hunters.
Al though the Grant Lake proj ect area is not considered good bear
hunting area, moderate hunting pressure is exerted on Dall's sheep,
mountain goat, and moose, so black bears are subject some exploita-
tion.
Mustelidae
Marten are indigenous to the Kenai Peninsula and once were
prominent in the fur trade. Early in this century marten populations
drastically declined, perhaps, like some other furbearers, as a result
of heavy trapping and as a side effect of a poisoning campaign against
wolves. The animal was slow to recover but is now present over much
of the mountain and foothill area of the Kenai Peninsula. A profes-
sional trapper and resident of Moose Pass we talked with had not taken
marten in the Grant Lake basin but reported a sizeable marten popula-
tion in the Snow River country southeast of the project area (Candit,
pers. comm.). Judkins, also a trapper and resident of Moose Pass,
reported that marten was relatively common in lower Falls Creek (pers.
comm.) . Our field crews noted tracks of a single marten at two
168
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locations in March 1982; one on the Inlet Creek delta at the east end
of Grant Lake and the other on the timbered ridge north of Falls
Creek. The species is present though not abundant in the coniferous
forests of the study area.
Weasel are widely distributed throughout the Kenai Peninsula.
The Grant Lake area is no exception,
noted throughout all habitat types
and tracks of this mammal were
of the study area. There is
considerable variation in density. Sign was most abundant in grassy
areas near timberline and around lake margins, probably as a reflec-
tion of abundance of voles, the principal prey species.
No mink were sighted by our field crews during the survey period
and very little sign indicating their presence was noted. Tracks and
scats were most common along the shoreline of Trail lakes near the
mouth of Grant Creek and in Grant Creek proper. During March of 1982,
we noted a single set of mink tracks along the west shore of Trail
River. It ran from open water into a talus pile directly across from
the mouth of Grant Creek. The site may have been utilized for denning
purposes.
Habitat suitable for mink appears limited to the lower reaches of
Falls and Grant creeks and to the shoreline of Trail lakes. Habitats
along Trail lakes are probably important only following salmon runs
when spawned-out salmon gather in shallows to die. Trail lakes are so
glacially turbid that mink are probably unable to locate prey in it at
other times.
Based on the information at hand, the mouth of Grant Creek serves
as the center of distribution and abundance for this species in the
study area. Lack of sighting of individuals coupled with scarcity of
sign and limited habitat leads us to believe that very few mink
inhabit the study area.
Wolverine are relatively abundant predators on the Kenai Penin-
sula. Wide-ranging by nature, they can be found in all habitat types,
most commonly in mountain areas (Figure 77). In March 1982 our crews
noted wolverine tracks in a number of locations; Inlet Creek delta and
on to the eastward, traversing the benchland below timberline between
Falls Creek and Grant Lake, and the timberline area on the west ridge
of Lark Mountain. L. Candit (pers. comm.) reported trapping "seven
169
--...J o
i·
Figure 77. Distribution of
wolverine.
11 •
-
-
.... -
or eight" over the course of 20 years of trapping in the Grant Lake
drainage basin. At present, the Grant Lake-Falls Creek area is
evidently within the travel and hunting range of one or more wolve-
rines. In particular, the Inlet Creek delta was the site of con-
siderable wolverine foraging activity in March of 1982. Several prey
species were in this area at the time.
River otter are relatively abundant and widespread on the Kenai
Peninsula but no sign of their presence was found in the study area.
Sui table habitat for otter is limited to the lower reaches of Grant
Creek. Lack of habitat probably precludes the establishment of a
resident population. otters are probably present as transients
throuhout the area, however.
Felidae
Lynx are widespread over the Kenai Peninsula. Dependent as they
are on the snowshoe hare as a primary food source, lynx distribution
and population levels closely shadow that of the hare. Forest and
brushland country, where there is an abundance of hardwood browse
plants available for hares, is prime lynx habitat. Currently, the
hare population on the Kenai Peninsula and, thus, that of the lynx as
well, is high. The Grant Lake-Falls Creek area has a relatively low
hare population and few areas of concentration so levels of lynx are
correspondingly low. Tracks of a single lynx were noted in the
timberline area east of Vagt Lake. Lynx would not likely develop much
greater abundance here.
Cervidae
Moose, a holarctic species, have been part of the Alaska fauna
for at least 175,000 years (LeResche et al. 1974, Pewe and Hopkins
1967). The Alaska race, Alces alces gigas, is one of seven subspecies
recognized worldwide and is distinguished principally by its large
size. In unexploited populations ~. ~. gigas males often attain 1,600
pounds at maturity; females seldom exceed 1,000 pounds. Moose are not
particularly abundant wi thin the study area at this time. Several
factors discussed below are probably responsible for limiting study
area moose numbers.
171
Moose are characteristic inhabitants of subclimax seral stages
and typically attain their highest densities in forested areas which
have been modified by fire, flood, or some other form of timber
removal (Leopold and Darling 1953). Moose are primarily browsers
throughout most of the year. This is especially true during winter
m<;mths. They appear to prefer willow browse to all others (Spencer
and Chatelain 1953). Moose utilization of willow seems highly skewed
in favor of relatively few types. These are: S. alaxensis, S. novae-
angliae, S. interior, S. arbusculoides, and S. pulchra (Milke 1969,
Wolff 1976). In some areas (mostly those disturbed by fire) moose
utilize birch (Betula spp.) and aspen (Populus spp.) to a greater
extent than willow (Spencer and Chatelain 1953; LeResche and Davis
1971,1973). Use of browse other than willow appears to be related
more to availability than species preference. Spencer and Chatelain
(1953) believed that winter food varied chiefly according to plant
availability on given ranges. Low bush cranberry and foliose lichens
apparently serve as important alternate winter foods on some ranges
(LeResche and Davis 1973). Use of these low-growing forms is usually
restricted by snow cover, and such use is significant only on shel-
tered ranges.
Hixed species stands of browse generally seem to be of greater
value to moose than predominantly pure stands (Spencer and Hakala
1964; Cowan et al. 1950). This seems to apply as well in winter as in
summer, even though the nutrient value of winter browse species is
uniformly low (Oldenmeyer et al. 1977; Kubota et al. 1970), suggesting
that little gain would accrue to moose which had access to mixed
species stands.
During warm months the diet of moose consists of the previously
listed browse species plus a variety of terrestrial and aquatic
plants. Beginning in late May newly emergent grasses and aquatic and
marsh vegetation, such as sedges, horsetail, pondweed, buckbean, and
water lily are actively sought (LeResche and Davis 1973; LeResche
1966; D. Spencer, pers. comm). Newly emergent aquatic vegetation is
rich in sodium (Belovsky and Jordan 1981), and its availability may
play a crucial role in moose population dynamics (Belovsky 1981).
Lakes and ponds between Grant and Trail lakes support lush buckbean
172
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...
...
.'
..
-
... -
---..
..
--• -• -.. -•
• -
l1li -
------
• -..
and water lily growth, and much evidence was found of their use by
moose. Aquatic plants are eaten with decreasing frequency throughout
the summer as palatability decreases. During this period, moose begin
to eat increasing amounts of prefloral forbs and mushrooms (LeResche
and Davis 1973). Browse use increases as fall approaches and herba-
ceous vegetation declines in palatability.
Summer range does not appear to be a limiting factor. Ponds and
lakes between Grant Lake and the Trail lakes produce abundant aquatics
and much evidence of their use by moose was seen. Lower slopes
adjacent to Grant Lake support vigorous stands of Calamagrostis
canadensis, and suitable browse, while not abundant, occurs throughout
the study area. In sum, the study area produces appropriate summer
foods in seemingly sufficient quantities.
The chief natural factor limiting moose numbers in the study area
appears to be the amount and quality of winter range. Wi th few
exceptions the vegetation sere has advanced beyond the stages favoring
palatable browse. As a consequence, few places within the study area
meet all of the criteria which collectively describe winter range .
Remaining winter range is largely confined to the active floodplains
of lower Falls and Inlet creeks (Figure 78). In these locations the
vegetation sere is periodically retarded by the action of flood
waters. Both areas support palatable riparian willows (Appendix D) i
neither, however, is being utilized to its potential. Examination of
browse lines indicates a much greater use in the recent past than at
present.
Several factors may be responsible for lack of greater recent use
of the study area in winter by moose. Snow depths could occasionally
exceed the height of willow stands, even though many plants exceed 4 m
in height. Al though moose can easily reach browse 3 m above ground
level (1'lolff 1976), they have difficulty traveling in snow deeper than
a meter (Coady 1974). Alternately, access to these isolated stands of
winter range could be restricted by snow depth, avalanches, or glare
ice on the lakes. The winter of 1981-82 was not particularly severe,
however, and it seems likely that other explanations must be sought to
explain why most moose left the study area during winter. Lack of use
in recent years might reflect the results of increasing hunter-induced
173
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'$'primary
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moose winter range.
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mortality (Hinman 1979, 1980a, 1980b) but lack of abundant food
resources due to the advancing age of the sere in all probability is
the chief reason few moose overwinter in the study area.
Most moose within the study area appear to be migratory.
sightings of individuals and sign were more common during the warmer
seasons than during winter--despite the severe limitations on visi-
bility imposed by the leaves of deciduous trees and forbes in Summer .
Several clearly defined traditional travel routes were found, pro-
viding a clue as to the normal means of ingress and egress used by
moose (Figure 79).
Moose movements on the Kenai Peninsula as a whole peak seasonally
in May-June and November-December (Bailey et al. 1978). These peaks
represent seasonal movements by migratory stocks moving from lowlands
to uplands and uplands to lowlands, respectively. Movements of males
generally exceed those of females. Males tend to cover greater
distances than females during the rut (Bailey et al. 1978), but these
distances vary widely among individual moose and tend to be greatest
among the two-and three-year-old age classes (Bailey et al. 1978) .
Average straight-line distances moved between summer and winter ranges
by Kenai Peninsula moose four years of age and older varies between
11.7 to 24.2 km; some two-and three-year-olds move up to 60 kID
(Bailey et al. 1978).
Home range size varies between habitat types and whether or not
an individual moose is migratory. ~anges of nonmigratory lowland
moose are apparently smaller than those of nonmigratory upland in-
habi tants, and upland winter ranges are larger than upland summer
ranges (Bailey et al. 1978). LeResche (1974) argued that upland
ranges in Alaska are inferior to lowland ranges, noting that densities
2 in the former vary between 0.8 to 1.6 moose/kID, and densities in the
2 latter appear close to four to six moose/km. Upland winter ranges of
nonmigratory stocks on the Kenai appear to be five to seven times the
size of lowland winter ranges (Bailey et al. 1978).
Based on the results of field and literature survey we estimate
that moose numbers within the study area during summer fluctuate
between 20 and 30 individuals per year. Assuming these estimates are
correct, stocking densities range from 2.3 to 3.5/mi 2 on summer range
175
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Note:
! I
Moose travel routes
Well-defined routes/runways
Normal direction of ingress based on
tracking evidence
Available evidence indicates that
!essf ! ace" llisY f:ilo;' '!he
same avenues of approach.
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(Figure 80). As noted above, few moose overwinter in the study area.
Stocking densities in this range are relatively low compared to other
areas on the Kenai Peninsula. Low stocking densities are not sur-
prising, however, considering that range quality is generally poor as
a consequence of advanced age, moose production in this area is low
(Hinman 1979, 1980a, 1980b), and predation by humans, wolves, and
bears throughout the Kenai is high (Hinman 1979, 1980a, 1980b;
Chatelain 1950; Franzmann et ale 1980).
From a statewide perspective the moose resources of the study
area are relatively insignificant. Viewed from a local perspective,
however, the resource takes on added importance. Moose are nowhere
abundant in the mountains of the eastern half of the Kenai Peninsula
and, consequently, the study area's population is biologically
significant to the area as a whole. The population also is important
to humans. Hunting pressure is relatively high due to its location
adjacent to the road system. Most hunters are local residents,
however, in past years Grant Lake attracted as many as four fly-in
hunting parties per year (Judkins, pers. comm.). Moose harvest
figures are unavailable for the area, but based on the results of our
survey we believe that legal annual take could not exceed five. Some
indication of illegal hunting was noted during our surveys, but this
was never verified. Considering the proximity of the area to human
habitations there is a decided potential for illegal hunting to occur.
Figure 81 provides a timetable of significant annual events for moose.
Bovidae
Mountain goats inhabit the entire mountain area of t.he Kenai
Peninsula but densities are greatest east of the railroad. The Kenai
Peninsula goat population has been relatively stable over a long
period. The population is, however, subject to considerable short-
term annual fluctuations and shifts in ranges due primarily to winter
weather conditions and, in recent years, to hunting pressures. A
general overall decline in Kenai Peninsula populations has been noted
over the past 10 years. Although current total Kenai mountain goat
population estimates are not available, it is probably in the range of
one to two thousand animals. In 1979, 1980, and 1981, a total of 41
177
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Figure 81. Timetable of significant biological events for
moose--southcentral Alaska.
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t; R
Rut
Parturition
winter I Presence on range
Dispersing young I I
Source: Bailey et al. 1978.
LeResche 1966; 1972; 1974 .
LeResche and Coady 1974.
Spencer and Chatelain 1953.
Chatelain 1950 •
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179
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goats were captured and equipped with radio collars and subsequently
moni tored to obtain life history information by the ADF&G (Nichols,
pers. comm.). This study area extended from Trail lakes to Kings Bay
and from Trail Glacier to Ptarmigan Lake. The Grant Lake drainage is
the nucleus of this study area. As a consequence, more accurate data
are available for the goats of this region than any other location in
Alaska.
The entire area under study by ADF&G had an estimated population
of 246 goats in the summer of 1979 and 1981; a winter of heavy snow
and severe avalanche conditions in 1980 induced considerable mortality
and reduced productivity. Of this group, about one-quarter (an
average of 50) commonly use the Grant Lake basin through much of the
year.
Although the entire drainage is used by goats, the most important
sections are located on the south-facing slopes of the north half of
the drainage--generally small vegetated benches and ridges in the 300
to 1,000 m altitudinal range. Figures 82 through 84 record the
locations of goats at seasonal periods as observed during our field
studies.
Goat hunting on the Kenai Peninsula is presently rigidly con-
trolled by a permit system that allocates a limited harvest to' each
unit of range. In 1982, 16 goat hunting permits were issued for the
Ptarmigan Lake-Trail Creek-Moose Creek area, including the Grant Lake
drainage (area 839).
The northern half of the Grant Lake drainage has been, and is
presently, the location of excellent mountain goat habitat and
continues to support good seasonal populations of these animals. The
primary area of interchange is into the Hoose Creek drainage to the
northeast and across the glacier to the east to the Kings River-Kings
Bay area.
The principal area of goat use in the Grant Lake basin is the
north side of the lake. This south-facing slope is utilized in fall,
winter, spring, and into early summer. Occupied areas reach from
alpine benches downslope into stringers of mountain hemlock.
Food habits during fall, winter, and spring depend largely on
weather, as mountain goats readily shift their ranges in response to
180
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i / 1
Figure 83.
I I I I
Observations of mountain goat,
May 21, 1982.
,. I I I "
Figure 84. Observations of mountain goat,
June 8 and 9, 1982.
changing weather patterns. For example, Hjeljord (1971) described a
sudden downslope movement off of a subalpine fall range into an
old-growth forest dominated by hemlock following a one and a-half foot
snowfall. In limited observations in this habitat type, Hjeljord
(1971) noted mountain goats feeding in the understory on Phyllodoce
aleutica, Blechnum spicant, and Luetkea pectinata. No other plants
were consumed, although bryophytes, Cassiope spp., Rubus spp., Cornus
spp., and Vaccinium spp. were present.
Mountain goats often occupy extremely limited ranges during
winter (Hjeljord 1971). Two basic habitat types are utilized during
winter. Their use apparently depends on the amount and nature of the
snow cover. Type one, which appears to be preferred, may be charac-
terized as windblown, south-facing, knife-edged ridges (Schoen 1979;
Hjeljord 1971, 1973). These sites, which support low volumes of
vegetation (Hansen and Archer 1981), are usually occupied only when
snow conditions allow (Hjeljord 1971, 1973). Food items on these
si tes are limited mainly to those forms which remain upright in the
snow, such as Festuca altaica, Carex circinnata, and Carex microchaeta
(Hjeljord 1971, 1973; Hansen and Archer 1981). Other forms eaten on
alpine winter ranges include willow browse, mountain hemlock, (Hansen
and Archer 1981), and bearberry (Klein 1953). Mountain hemlock was
present in 70 percent of all fecal samples collected from alpine
winter ranges at Grant Lake (Hansen and Archer 1981).
The second major habitat type utilized by mountain goats in
winter is sUbalpine in nature (Hjeljord 1971, 1973; Schoen 1979;
Schoen et al. 1980). Subalpine ranges are usually adjacent to steep,
rocky valley walls which serve as escape terrain (Hjeljord 1971).
Subalpine ranges are usually occupied only during periods of heavy
snowfall. Some individuals, however, utilize subalpine ranges
throughout winter (Schoen et al. 1980; Hjeljord 1971).
As soon as snow conditions permit in spring, mountain goats begin
an upslope migration through the alder zone (Hjeljord 1971, 1973).
Early spring ranges are similar in appearance to winter subalpine
haunts, but individuals are more dispersed (Hjeljord 1971). Principal
food items at this season above timberline include the young leaves of
184
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III
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lady fern, Calamagrostis canadensis, and Festuca altaica (Hjeljord
1971).
In summary, the Grant Lake drainage is an important segment of
the best mountain goat habitat on the Kenai Peninsula. It supports a
long term average of 50 goats; a number subj ect to considerable
seasonal and annual variation. These goats are a part of a group
ranging over the Ptarmigan, Grant, Moose Creek, and Kings Bay valley
regions. Most goats move out of the Grant Creek drainage for a brief
period in midsummer occupying the range in varied numbers the re-
mainder of the year.
The southern side of the Grant Lake drainage and Falls Creek
drainage is used to a much lower degree than the north part of the
drainage. This south-facing slope is evidently subject to intense
avalanche activity and this factor may limit its utility to mountain
goats. Although the extent of mortality to sheep and goats from this
cause is unknown, avalanches appear to be a significant mortality
factor in Alaska. Five of Nichols (1980a) 20 radio-collared goats
were killed in one winter by avalanches. Klein (1953) found 10
carcasses in 1952, at least seven of which had died in avalanches.
Reports of similar findings are common in literature .
The Dall' s sheep is a wilderness animal residing for the most
part in rugged alpine and subalpine mountain habitat. Dall's sheep in
the Grant Lake project area are distributed in several small bands
throughout the study area.
Dall's sheep on the Kenai Peninsula are relatively more abundant
on to the interior sections of the Kenai Mountain range than else-
where. Grant Lake range constitute the outer boundary of sheep range
in this area.
the west by
Ranges in the study area are isolated from ranges to
the Kenai-Trail lakes drainage system and the human
transportation corridor between Moose Pass and Seward.
Dall's sheep are reported to range over the entire Grant Lake and
Falls Creek drainage. In our study, however, they were only noted on
the northern half of the Grant Lake drainage. This is evidently their
most favored range.
Accurate sheep population data for the entire Kenai Peninsula are
not available, however trend counts indicate an overall stable and
185
healthy population. The total recorded harvest of rams in 1981 was 11
(taken by 107 hunters), a decline in both harvest and hunters over
past years (Spraker 1982). Population studies of three separate Kenai
Peninsula herds in the areas of Crescent and Surprise mountains and
the Cooper Landing closed area during the early 1970's revealed that
lamb production averaged around 40 lambs per 100 ewes (Nichols 1975).
Dall's sheep have a high reproductive potential, and most adult ewes
and many yearlings become pregnant even under stresse4 range condi-
tions. Mortality among lambs is normally low, averaging about 40 to
50 percent.
In May of 1980 and 1981 14 and 47 sheep, respectively, were
recorded on the Grant Lake ranges (Nichols, pers. comm.). In early
June of 1982, 30 sheep were recorded by AEIDC on the slopes north of
Grant Lake. Based on extant trend counts and the results of this
survey we conclude that Dall' s sheep numbers vary naturally between
years and that the range of variation is 10 to 50 animals.
Frequent interchange apparently occurs with the Moose Creek
drainage, particularly in the summer period. As with goats, midele-
vations of the slopes constitute favored range, especially vegetated
benches, and the upper edges of timbered areas and exposed ridges
where some forage plants are available. We observed sheep at various
seasons from the Lark Mountain ridge line above Moose Pass to slopes
in the upper basin of the drainage. The location of sheep obser-
vations made during this study are displayed in Figures 85 and 86.
Because Dal1' s sheep are diurnal, they feed almost any time
during the long daylight hours of summer. Major feeding periods
generally occur early in the morning and late afternoon with some
grazing activity about midday. Feeding habitat is typically alpine--
steep open grasslands interspersed with broken cliffs and talus slopes
in glaciated mountains. Lower portions may extend through subalpine
associations to treeline. Such ranges have stands of shrubs and
hemlock thickets.
Winter range generally comprises a small sector of the overall
range. Good winter range in the Grant Lake basin consists of snow-
free sites near escape terrain at the midaltitudinal level of the
basin. In early spring, sheep sometimes must move to lower altitudes
186
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Observations of Dall's sheep,
June 8 and 9, 1982.
i I i J i j !
-
-
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----.--
-
into subalpine tree cover, where emergent vegetation appears soon
after the snow recedes. within the study area, sheep scats were found
in open Calamagrostis cauadensis meadows as low as 1000 ft in alti-
tude.
In sum, early summer movements are characterized by dispersal
over all sui table habitat. As the seasons progress toward winter,
sheep withdraw to smaller portions of range with the necessary winter
habitat. Movement to mineral licks is an important phase of seasonal
movements, however, no licks were found during this study.
Winter range is the principal limiting factor. Mortality among
young lambs is low during their first summer but is high in winter,
reaching 40 to 50 percent. Similarly, the nutritional intake of
yearlings supports growth rather than fat storage. As a consequence,
winter mortality among non-nursing yearlings appears to be high, and
probably approaches 15 to 20 percent. Exceptionally severe winters
may cause drastic declines in sheep numbers regardless of population
density or range condition.
While coyotes, wolverines, bears, and eagles may prey on sheep,
the wolf appears to be the principal predator. Wolves, however, do
not appear to exert much influence on sheep numbers in the Grant Lake
area except when sheep may be forced by competition to feed distant
from escape terrain at the time wolves move through the area.
189
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE RESOURCES
Plants and animals have intrinsic ecological values which in turn
have socioeconomic value. Thus, living resources may be viewed as
having two distinct value components. The Grant Lake study area has
ecological significance due to its location between two major eco-
systems. Communities to the east are dominated by a type of coastal
rainforest; and to the west by a more xeric association typical of
interior Alaska (Appendix D).
The ecosystem is an ecotone. The study area's biota are enhanced
by contributions from each ecosystem plus some unique to the area as a
whole. For example, typical maritime species such as mountain goats
flourish alongside interior species such as Dall's sheep; hybrids
between coastal Sitka spruce and interior white spruce dominate stands
of Picea; and mountain hemlock, enhanced by the area's abundant pre-
cipitation and unhampered by competition from western hemlock, often
attain diameters of 1 m or more at breast height. Further, due to the
areas relative isolation, several vertebrate populations may be gene-
tically distinct and worthy of note. Known instances are limited to
certain salmonids but there is reason to suspect that at least some
terrestrial forms are also genetically discrete. The rugged physio-
graphy of the area restricts animal movements and some populations may
be isolated from others. Isolation of conspecifics by geomorphic
features has been implicated elsewhere as one of the principal motive
forces driving evolutionary processes.
The study area also has importance in a socioeconomic context.
Study area streams contribute small but significant numbers of
salmonids to regional fisheries. Area forests, while not rich in
merchantible stands, are important sources of fuel and fiber to local
residents. These forests also provide habitat for much sought after
wildlife species such as bear and moose and are important to the
area's hydrologic regime. Ci tizens also utilize the areas living
resources for recreation.
Although systematic data are not extant, it appears likely that
use of the area I s living resources is not limited to local inhabi-
tants. The study area sits astride one of Alaska I s major transpor-
190
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tation routes and is located on the Kenai Peninsula, focal point for
recreationists in southcentral Alaska. Since recreation in Alaska is
heavily oriented towards existing travel corridors it appears likely
that the areas resources are used by more than local residents.
Below we discuss the relative significance of the study area's
biota from both a socioeconomic and an ecological viewpoint.
AQUATIC
The Grant and the Falls Creek drainages provide fish habitat and
production which contributes to the aquatic resources of the Upper
Kenai River drainage. Grant Lake is under study by the Alaska Depart-
ment of Fish and Game (ADF&G) because of its potential as a nursery
for salmon juveniles produced by their enhancement efforts in the
upper Kenai drainage.
Inaccessible to migrating fish from downstream, Grant Lake pos-
sesses neither sport nor commercial fisheries resources. However, it
is under study as a potential rearing area for some of the sockeye,
chinook, and perhaps coho salmon juveniles to be produced at the ADF&G
Trail Lakes hatchery (L. Flagg, pers. comm.). The hatchery (with a
40 million salmon egg capacity) is in its first year of operation with
an initial production of sockeye and coho salmon. Preliminary inves-
tigations of water quality parameters and the plankton populations of
Grant Lake indicate that it should be an excellent nursery area for
juvenile sockeye salmon.
An experimental introduction of 1 million sockeye fry into Grant
Lake is scheduled for June of 1983. Tentative plans indicate that
coho fry will be released into Grant Lake during June of 1983, al-
though the issue of coho and sockeye juvenile competition is still
being deliberated. An experimental release of up to 200,000 king
salmon in 1984 is being considered as well. An ADF&G program to
evaluate the egress of outmigrants from Grant Lake is contemplated for
1983 (L. Flagg, pers. comm.).
Grant Lake contains a large population of threespine stickleback.
Juvenile sockeye salmon utilize the same foods as stickleback, so
there may be some interspecific competition. In some areas such
191
competition may be a limiting factor to sockeye production. However,
there appears to be sufficient dietary differences and abundance of
food items in Grant Lake so this issue may not be serious.
Grant Creek I s importance to fish production in the Kenai River
system is primarily due to its utilization for spawning and rearing by
king salmon. These fish contribute to the annual production of
approximately 50 ,000 king salmon in the Kenai River system. The
number of king salmon reported to spawn in Grant Creek is small
(Figure 35) compared to the overall production of the Kenai system;
however, tributary systems above Skilak Lake generally average king
salmon escapements of 50 to 200 fish, making the importance of each
contributing tributary more significant (C. Burger, pers. comm.).
These fish are probably from the early run into the Kenai system,
which consists of a distinct group of fish that separate into rela-
tively small spawning runs which utilize headwater tributary systems.
Late run fish have been found to limit themselves to the mainstem of
the Kenai River for spawning (C. Burger, pers. comm.). In addition,
the Grant Creek system is one of the furthest upstream tributaries of
the Kenai drainage utilized by king salmon. The genetic characteris-
tics of the king salmon in Grant Creek may give this stock a value
which is beyond that given to this run in terms of abundance alone.
Sockeye salmon also spawn in Grant Creek. Historically, the
annual run size has been quite variable (Figure 35); however, many
more sockeye may spawn in the interconnecting Trail River at the Grant
Creek confluence. Actual numbers of spawners at this location are
difficult to determine due to the turbidity of Trail River water. The
size of the sockeye run in Grant Creek is moderate compared to runs in
other tributaries in the Kenai system. As in the case of the Grant
Creek king salmon, these sockeye belong to a group of the most up-
stream spawning stocks in the drainage.
Coho salmon, rainbow trout, and Dolly Varden may also spawn in
Grant Creek. Small coho salmon fry observed in August 1982 (Fig-
ure 45) indicated that spawning by this species probably occurs in
Grant Creek. Juveniles of these species as well as juvenile king
salmon utilize Grant Creek for rearing during the summer and fall.
Grant Creek, while somewhat turbid, provides a refuge and feeding area
192
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for all these species of juvenile fish. Its value may increased as
the Trail lakes system becomes extremely turbid due to glacial runoff
in the late summer and fall. Its value to juveniles would be limited
somewhat by high velocities; however, we found the creek to be heavily
utilized by all species, especially Dolly Varden. Substantial rearing
habitat is available in the deep pools, backwaters and side channels.
Interstitial habitats are also available in the areas of large
substrate found throughout Grant Creek.
In summary, Grant Creek currently provides habitat for the pro-
duction of fish species recognized as valuable to the sport and
commercial fisheries on Kenai River stocks, and contributes to the
overall fish production and diversity of the Kenai River system.
Falls Creek provides little fishery habitat and appears 'to
support only juvenile Dolly Varden. Cold water, high velocities, and,
placer mining operations probably limit its producti vi ty. Sockeye
salmon are believed to spawn in the Trail River at the mouth of Falls
Creek. The number of sockeye using that interface is difficult to
determine due to the persistent high turbidity of Trail River water
during the summer spawning period.
The Grant Lake and Falls Creek drainages are currently utilized
by humans for a number of water-related activities: mining, sport
fishing, canoeing, skiing, cabin sites, snowmachining, and other rec-
reational use. Grant Lake has limited accessibility and no sport fish
in residence. The principal human activity appears to be related to
the mining activity in the lower basin and occasional use of a cabin
in the upper basin. A mine access road connects Upper Trail Lake to
the north end of the Lower Grant Lake basin. Two canoes were present
throughout our study period near the saddle darn site and are assumed
to be used by recreational canoeists or hunters. A semi-permanent
snowmachine trail exists from Upper Trail Lake to Grant Lake via the
saddle dam area.
A regularly used cabin exists near the mouth of Grant Creek.
Apparently the owner of this cabin obtained use of this site because
of its location on Grant Creek and the fishing and other recreational
opportunities available in the area. Access to the creek is difficult
and requires a boat; however, local residents fish for Dolly Varden
193
and rainbow trout from the mouth of the creek to the gorge.
Creek is closed to salmon fishing.
Grant
Falls Creek has several mining claims, both active and inactive.
The active placer dam near the mouth has involved rechannelization of
Falls Creek. The miner anticipates terminating his activities on
Falls Creek in two to three years. Some sport fishing occurs in Trail
River near the mouth of Falls Creek although the target species are
probably migrating to water bodies in the Trail lakes basin.
In summary, the project drainages do not receive heavy human
utilization compared to other subdrainages in the Kenai River basin.
The most prevalent water-related acti vi ties currently are mining on
Grant Lake and Falls Creek and sport fishing in Grant Creek. Future
activities in project area waters by ADF&G's salmon enhancement
program will undoubtedly change the character of the fishery resource.
TERRESTRIAL
Although not of spectacular quality in terms of the entire Kenai
Peninsula, the study areas' terrestrial resources are ecologically
significant at least from a local perspective. The most productive,
and hence significant, habitats center on the Inlet Creek delta at the
east end of Grant Lake, certain south-facing slopes on the north side
of Grant Lake, the outlet area of Grant Lake, upper parts of the Grant
and Falls creek drainages and the bench land between Vagt Lake and
adjacent mountain slopes. In aggregate these units provide seasonal
feeding and breeding ranges for ungulates, carnivores, and rodents as
well as good nesting habitat for passerine and some raptor species.
These habitat units, while limited areally, are central to the main-
tenance of the larger mammals of the study area.
An ancillary benefit of the area's ecological value concerns its
potential for scientific study. Virtually the entire Grant Lake
project area lies within the boundary of an ADF&G research area where
41 mountain goats have been instrumented with radio tracking devices
during the past three years. These studies are expected to continue
well into the future and will contribute information on species
ecology and biology applicable to regional management programs. Such
194
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information also has educational potential which indirectly adds to
the significance of the area's ecological value.
The relative value of the study area's wildlife resources and
their specific habitats varies by species abundance or availability
and their ranking in terms of socioeconomic importance. For example,
although they are little used at present, the dense willow thickets of
the Inlet Creek area at the east end of Grant Lake are valuable for
the long term maintenance of moose in the study area and, hence, have
significance. The same area also supports beaver and other fur
animals but these species are not in the public eye to the extent that
moose are. Similarly, south-facing slopes north of Grant Lake provide
essential seasonal habitat for mountain goat and Dall's sheep, and two
bear species. These slopes contribute materially to the perpetuation
of regional goat and sheep populations. Goats of the Grant Lake
project area represent approximately 28 percent of the regional popu-
lation and thereby constitute a significant component of the terres-
trial resources. Up to 50 animals of each species utilize this unit
as winter range and for parturition and the rearing of young. The
upper part of the Falls Creek drainage and mountain slopes around much
of the Grant Lake basin contain bear denning and feeding ranges;
however, these units are insignificant to regional populations. The
benchland above Vagt Lake serves the dual purpose of an intra drainage
travel route for the more mobile species and winter habitat for the
area's limited numbers of moose.
Water and marshland systems have little value to waterfowl with
the single exception of the Grant Lake outlet. This small shallow
water area appears to be ice free during most of winter and supports a
rich Ranunculus (white-water crowfoot) community and associated
invertebrates. This community provides feeding and resting habitat
for an overwintering flock of mallards.
Wildlife-oriented recreation is the predominate activity wi thin
the Grant Lake project area .
839. This area receives a
pressure depending upon the
The Grant Lake basin is ln hunting unit
low to moderate amount of recreational
availability of hunting permits. The
recreational value of sheep and goat hunting in this unit is rela-
tively insignificant compared to more popular hunting areas elsewhere
195
on the Kenai Peninsula. The recreational value of bear and moose
hunting also appears to be low by virtue of low numbers and access to
better hunting grounds on the Kenai Peninsula. Because of the few
moose available, hunting has been restricted in this area to only a
ten day season for bulls only. The bear harvest in this area is
extremely low, and most of the animals harvested are probably taken
incidentally to mountain goats and moose.
Fur animals are significant since they provide some cash income
and a recreational outlet. Some limited beaver trapping occurs in
this area, but interviews with local residents indicated that trapping
intensity varies considerably between and within years depending to a
large extent on market conditions. At least one trapper is active in
the area. Based on the evidence at hand, beaver trapping is more of a
recreational pursuit than one designed to provide a high rate of
monetary return.
In a regional context, wildlife-oriented recreation occurring
within the Grant Lake project area appears to be insignificant;
however, local residents place considerable reliance on the immediate
area as a convenient place to participate in various outdoor activi-
ties.
196
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III.
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a.
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''''I' ,
,
I~'
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•
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••
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••
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••
••
••
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IIIIIi
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PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS
The following individuals have been interviewed by ABIDC during
this study in order to obtain unpublished information on the Grant
Lake Hydroelectric Project area. Not all of these individuals have
been cited in the text.
Altland, B. Telephone conversation, October 1, 1982. Alaska Dept. of
Fish and Game, Soldotna, AK.
Arminski, T. Telephone conversation, December 9, 1981. Habitat Div.,
Alaska Dept. of Fish and Game, Anchorage, AK.
Babcock, B. Interview, March 3, 1982. Instructor, Anchorage
Community College, Anchorage, AK.
Bentz, R. Telephone conversation, December 7, 1981. Sport Fish Div.,
Alaska Dept. of Fish and Game, Palmer, AK .
Burger, C. Interview and telephone conversations, various dates (1981
and 1982). U.S. Fish and wildlife Service, Anchorage, AK .
Browning, R. Interview, October 13, 1981. U.S. Forest Service,
Seward, AK .
Candit, K. Interview, October 13, 1981. Trapper, resident, Moose
Pass, AK .
Engle, L. Telephone conversation, December 7, 1981. Sport Fish Div.,
Alaska Dept. of Fish and Game, Palmer, AK.
Estes, E. Interviews, 1981 and 1982. Self-employed resident, Moose
Pass, AK.
Flagg, L. Interview and telephone conversations, various dates (1981
and 1982). Fisheries Rehabilitation Enhancement and Development
Div., Alaska Dept. of Fish and Game, Soldotna, AK .
Hammerstrom, S. Telephone conversations, various dates (1981 and
1982). Sports Fish Div., Alaska Dept. of Fish and Game,
Soldotna, AK.
Heard, W. Telephone conversation, December 12, 1981. Auke Bay
Laboratory, U.S. National Marine Fisheries Service, Auke Bay, AK.
Judkins, C. Interviews, 1981 and 1982. Owner, Crown Point Lodge,
Moose Pass, AK .
Koenigs, J. Telephone conversations, various dates (1981 and 1982).
Fisheries Rehabilitation Enhancement and Development Div., Alaska
Dept. of Fish and Game, Soldotna, AK .
Larsen, L. Telephone conversation. January 7, 1982. sport Fish
Div., Alaska Dept. of Fish and Game, Soldotna, AK .
211
McHenry, T. Interview, October 12, 1981. Sport Fish Div., Alaska
Dept. of Fish and Game, Seward, AK.
Mills, M. Telephone conversation, January 6, 1982. Sport Fish Div.,
Alaska Dept. of Fish and Game, Anchorage, AK.
Nicholes, L. Interview, March 5, 1982. Alaska Dept. of Fish and
Game, Cooper Landing, AK.
Pfleger, L. Interviews, 1981 and 1982. Self-employed, pilot, resi-
dent, Moose Pass, AK.
Quinlin, S. Interview, December 8, 1981. Game Div., Alaska Dept. of
Fish and Game, Fairbanks, AK.
Richie, R. Telephone conversation, August, 1982. U.S. Fish and
wildlife Service, Kenai, AK.
Roseneau, D. 1982. Telephone conversation, March 26, 1982. LGL
Limited, Fairbanks, AK.
Smith, D. Interview, August 16, 1982. Ebasco Services, Inc.,
Bellevue, WA.
Spencer, D. Interviews, 1981 and 1982. Arctic Environmental
Information and Data Center, Univ. of Alaska, Anchorage, AK.
Spraker, T. Telephone conversation, April 15, 1982. Alaska Dept. of
Fish and Game, Soldotna, AK.
Sullivan,~ J. Telephone conversation, July 16, 1982. Pathology Div.,
Alaska Dept. of Fish and Game.
Tarbox, K. Telephone conversation, October 20, 1981 and interview,
December 11, 1981. Commercial Fish Div., Alaska Dept. of Fish
and Game, Soldotna, AK.
Thompson, K. Telephone conversation, october 23, 1981. U.S. Forest
Service, Anchorage, Ak.
Trudgen, D. Interview, 1981. Arctic Environmental Information and
Data Center, Univ. of Alaska, Anchorage, AK.
Walker, B. Interview, October 13, 1981. U.S. Forest Service, Seward,
AK.
Wangaard, D. Telephone conversation, October 20, 1981. U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service, Anchorage, AK.
Webster, K. Telephone conversation, October 1981. Commercial Fish
Div., Alaska Dept. of Fish and Game, Anchorage, AK.
Wilson, W.J. Interview, October, 1981. Arctic Environmental
Information and Data Center, Univ. of Alaska, Anchorage, AK.
212
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Report on
Archeological and Historical Resources,
Grant Lake Hydroelectric Project,
Moose Pass, Alaska
by
Katherine L. Arndt, Archeologist
Fairbanks, Alaska
August 20, 1982
...
Report on Archeological and Historical Resources,
Grant Lake Hydroelectric Eroject, Moose Fass, Alaska
This report describes archeological research conduc~ed fc~
1
the Arctic Environmental Information and Data Center in conju~c
tion with its environmental studies of the Grant ~~e Hydroelectric
~ Project area near Moose Pass, Kenai Peninsula, Alaska. The
research was completed in two phases. The first, a literature
search and examination of air photos, covered the general project
~
area. The second, an archeological field survey, focused upon
areas to be affected by the construction and operation of project
'''' alternative F, which consists of a small dam on Falls Creek ~'"ld
-,oM,
a pipeline which will divert water from the creek to Grant lake,
an underground lake tap between Grant Lake and a powerhouse on
Upper Trail Lake, and associated access roads and transmission
line corridors. The report summarizes the results of the lit-
erature search pertinent to alternative F, describes the methcds
and results of the archeological survey, and discusses probable
project impacts upon the cultural resources identified.
Methodolog-y
A literature search completed in January 1982 identified
several sites of potential historical significance within the
proj ect area. A field survey, completed in June 1982, was pl2-!".L-."1ed
both to examine these sites on the ground and to search for
previously undocumented sites within the area to be affected by
project construction. A subsequent examination of air photos of
the project area provided no additional information.
The literature search focused upon archeological, e~hncgraphic,
and historical sources which deal wit~ the Kenai Peninsula of
Alaska, the general project area. Its purpose was to identify
known cultural resources which might be affected by construction
or operation of the Grant Lake project, to assess the area's
potential for containing cultural resources which have not yet
been identified, and to provide background data for assessing
the significance of those resources. In addition, the Alaska
Heritage Resources Survey Inventory (AHRS) , as of 22 July 1981,
and the National Register of Historic Places, up to 12 January
1982, were checked for listings of cultural resources located
within the project area. The archeologist in the Supervisor's
Office on the Chugach National Forest provided supplementary
information from his files.
2
The field survey had two goals. First, it was to locate and
examine all sites identified in the literature search which will
be directly affected by project construction or operation. Second,
it was to identify previously unknown or unrecorded sites in the
project area. Prior to the field work a survey plan describing
~he methods to be employed was submitted for comment to the
Forest Supervisor of the Chugach National Forest, the State
Historic Preservation Officer, and t~e Director of the Alaska
Regional Office of the National Perk Service. The Forest S'J.pervisor
accepted the plan as it was. The State Historic Preservation
Officer accepted the plan but suggested that a follow-up survey
"be conducted after actual construction sites and material sources
had been identified on the ground. The National Park Service !!lade
no formal comment.
The field survey was undertaken in early June. Due to a late
lflii
...
""
..
spring the understory was just beginning to leaf out and gro~d
visibility was extremely good for a forest envi~onment. The
survey began with a brief aerial reconnaissance of the proie~t -...
area in a small airplane. In particular, we flew over the east
shore of Upper Trail Lake, circled over lower Grant LL~e, ~~d
followed the general route of the diversion pipeline from Gr~~t
Lake to Falls Creek. Due to the mountainous terrain, we had to
"3
maintain a relatively high altitude and the forest canopy obscured ..
much of the ground. The flight did, however, help us to get ou~
bearings. Because none of the construction sites or routes had
yet been marked on the ground, foot survey was confined to pro-
posed construction locations which were easily identifiable due
".. to their proximity to natural or man-made landm~ks. These loc=.-
tions were: 1) an area south of Vagt Lake Trail which will be
traversed by an access road; 2) the pro·posed site of the Falls
Creek diversion dam in Section 17, T. 4N., R. 1 E., Seward
Meridian; 3) the proposed site of the diversion pipeline outlet
~ at the south end of Grant Lake and the Solars Sa'Nmill site at tte
;.-
outlet of the lake; 4) the proposed site of the powerhouse, sub-
station, and tailrace in the Nwiswi Section 6, T. 4 N., R. 1 3.,
Seward Heridian, and part of what we believed to be the old trail
between Solars Sawmill and this cove; 5) the east end of the prc-
posed bridge site at the narrows between Upper and Lower Trail
lakes; 6) the east shore of Upper Trail Lake frem the proposed
bridge site to the powerhouse site in the NWis~i Section 6, T. L
R. 1 E., Seward r·1eridian; and 7) the island and adjacent shere
b~t'deen the upper and lower portions of Grant Lake. 'tie did not
4
examine the east shore of Lower Trail Lake as proposed in the sur-
vey plan because construction of an access road in this area is
no longer being considered.
In general, the survey consisted of an examination on foot
of the ground's surface and any existing exposures such as uprooted
trees, road cuts, and erosion cuts. A limited number of small
test pits were dug in areas withbut natural exposures which
appeared to be relatively high in archeological potential; all
tests were backfilled. No artifacts were collected in the course
of the survey. Survey methods for specific project segments are
described below.
1) Area between Vagt Lake Trail and an existing access road
in Section 13, T. 4 N., R. 1 W., Se',o'ard !r!eridian: A pipeline
access road will pass through this area. \'/e covered the area~
from the Alaska Railroad track to the point where the 500-foot
contour crosses the trail,in a series of 12 north-south transects.
The first transect ran parallel to and approximately 15 m east of
the railroad track. The second transect ran roughly parallel to
and approximately 10 m east of the first. The remaining transects
were spaced at intervals of approximately 30 to 35 m. The area is
forested but fairly clear of underbrush except for a stand of low
willows near the west end of the trail. We also walked along the
Vagt Lake Trail from its beginning to a point just beyond its
right-angle turn in Section 18, T. 4 N., R. 1 E., Sev,rard Ivleridian.
The proposed route approaches the portion of the trail which lies ,
between the 500-foot contour and the bend.
2) North bank of Falls Creek between the Alaska Railroad
track and the proposed site of a diversion dam in Section 17,
li\?*r-
...
,",'
5
T 4 N R 1 '" Se\,''''''''d j\lerl" dl" an· The area north of the r-r::::::'K • ., • ....,., .~=.... ---...
between the railroad track and approximately the 530-foot contour,
-where an existing access road comes down to a placer c1a1= o~ the
creek, is relatively level with open forest. We covered a swath
20 to 25 m wide along this portion of the creek. Crossing the
access road, we continued along the creek bank for a sho=t distance
~~til its increasing steepness forced us to climb back up to the
road. The existing access road runs parallel to but well above
~
the creek bed nearly to the point where the 600-foot contour
crosses the creek. Here the road veers north around a small knoll;
we continued east through heavy brush, staying as close to the
bank as possible. We crossed the access road again at a point
where the creek forces its way past a resistant rock prolTIc:ntory.
The creek elevation here is approximately 895 feet~ \Ve continued
east through open, old-growth forest along a trail brushed for
the north boundary of the Harathon 1 placer claim, parallel to
the creek but well above it. Beyond f>larathon 1, we proceeded
parallel to the creek through heavy brush along the flagged
northern boundaries of the f1arathon 2 and 3 claims. The farthest
point .reached upstream was slightly beyond the intersection of the
1TE corner of the f1arathon 3 with the mv corner of the Four Jokers
1 placer claims, where the existing access road again app:::''Jacnes
the creek. VIe believed this to be in the vicinity of the prcposed
dam site. We returned to the Alaska Railroad track via t~e
existing access road.
3) Proposed pipeline outlet, south end of GraIlt Lake: ~he
archeologist walked five transects between a grove of alders on
the east and a patch of beaver-felled birch and the forest en
6
the west, zigzagging upslope. A broad band of slope wash on the
east was also exa~ined; it appears to be fairly recent for it
lies in a thin layer atop the thick grasses which cover the area.
The shaley beach between the alder grove and the birch stand was
also examined.
4) Solars Sa\~ill overland to the proposed powerhouse site
in Section 6, T. 4 N., R. 1 E., Seward Meridian: We examined the
sawmill site, then set out along a trail which we believed to be
that leading to Upper Trail Lake shown on the 1953 USGS map. The
trail, however, had been quite recently brushed in places, marked
with flagging tape, and turned decidedly north. \'Ie took a fainter
western branch but lost it on the edge of a muskeg and simply
continued on to the Dowerhouse site. We walked completely around
the cove on which the powerhouse site is located, both on the beach
and inland as far as the steep hill yrhich rises to the east of the
site. The higher ground here is covered with open growth of
scrub spruce while the lower areas are marshy. The upper part
of the small stream which flows into the bay here is lined with
·alders.
5) The shoreline of Upper Trail Lake from the powerhouse
site to the east end of the proposed bridge site at the mouth of
Grant Creek: This is the proposed route of an access road. The
archeologist walked south along the shore of Upper Trail r~~e
from the proposed pO\'rerhouse site, staying generally on the first
terrace above the lake. The shore is covered with open forest
except for an area of thick brush and scrub spruce near the
narrows. The small, elongate island which splits the mouth of
Grant Creek was also exar;lincd. This is the east end of a proPGsed
....
...
-
-
...
..
....
','<II
".,.
I'"
.... ,
Areas covered in survey_
SEWARD (B-7) QUADRANGLE
ALASKA
I :63.360 SERIES (TOPOGRAPHIC)
b .q
-: ..
bridge site. The archeologist walked around the knoll 0:1
north side of Grant Creek before returning alc~g the sa~e ,....----'-0 ---.-.
6) Island betwee~ upper and lower Grant Lake and ~d~a~e~~
points of land: The ] ake is very shallow here a~d may be d.r~dg'2i II'
to increase water flow. We walked completely ~ound the isl~d ....
and along the shore of both adjacent points of land where .' ..
dredging equipment might be based. The island is steep and =ocY.y
and mountain hemlock obscures the ground in places. '1'-n A "!"A \,-:."!",.:> -_ ..... -'-... --..... , ...
however, a number of natural exposures among the moss ~~d rei~deer •
lichens. The adjacent point of land to the north, cover~d with '". ..
open forest, offered a more extensive area of relatively level
". ground backed by steep rock outcrops. The'extreme so~th po~~t ..
"las steeper with sparser vegetation.
The aerial photos provided to the archeologist ¥ere t~v.~~
at a relatively high altitude due to the mountainous ~er~ai:J. in
....
this region. They yielded no additional infor~ation on the
distribution of cultural resources within the project ar~a.
Results
The prehistoric and early historic periods are poorly d~cu--
r:!ented in the project area. No sites relating to tr..ese periJds
were identified in the literature search, though it is Quite
possible that sites of this age do exist within the area.
~ritten references to the area deal primarily with the devel~~~e~t
of gold mining and the Alaska Railroad in the period after i~~0. -
All of the historic sites identified in the project area pos~-da~e
1900 and many relate to the railroad or mining indust=y.
.-
,""
'"'Ii
..
.....
,.
,iIIIII
.,
8
Table 1. Cultural resources identified in the literature search.
AHRS #
SE\'1021
SE\'l029
SEW148
none
none
none
none
none
SE\'1140
SEW192
Sites \vi thin Droj ect area
Crown Point/Trail Creek Station
Alaska Northern Railway
Iditarod Trail (on National Register of Historic Places)
Solars Sawmill
Stevenson Cabin
Trail between Solars Sawmill and Upper Trail Lake
Adjacent to project area on Falls Creek
Baggs Cabin
Crown Point Mine structures, localities A, B, a..."1.d C
Cro\,ffi Point Mountain Trail
Crown Point ~1ine
Results of the field survey, like the description of survey
methods, are organized by specific project segment.
1) Area between Vagt Lake Trail and an existing access road:
This area is adjacent to the Alaska Northern Railway (SE\V029) and
the Idi tarod Trail (SEW148), bot!1 of 'Vthich roughly coincide with
the present route of the Alaska Railroad track. The literature
search identified two other sites in this area, Crown POint/Trail
Creek Station (SE\,v021) and the Stevenson Cabin. These may be
different names for a single site. The Crown Point l':ine, which
lies above Falls Creek, was kno\~ at the turn of the century as
the Stephenson or Stevenson Bros. property. In 1910 this mining
property was deeded to the Kenai-Alaska Gold Co., which in 1915
had a large log house with an office a.l1d warehouse at Crown Point
Locations
are in or
of sites
adjacent
identified
to project
in literature search which
area.
SEW ARD (8-7) QUADRANGLE
ALASKA
1:63.360 SERIES (TOPOGRAPHIC)
. ,
.'
""
,."
111"
III!! ,
.'
-
.. "
• ..
or Trail Creek Station, a stop on the Alaska Northern Railway
(Martin et ale 1915:157-159; Barry 1973:145). The Stevensori
('..,hl·n s""'ol·rn-..., .... a-nT11"oxima+e 1 y +hl':-: ,_-ocation on a ma_D cO;:":"'I.uiled. cy v c. '-' _ , ,~. / = ~ .':-' j!_ • _ _ v _ V ~ _
D. H. Sleem in 1910 (Mattson, personal communication), may have
been associated with the earlier owners of the mining claim ~~d
simply ceded to the Kenai-Alaska Gold Co. when it took over the
mine. The archeological survey did not resolve this questio~.
The single overgrO\·m cabin foundation which we located in this ..
vicinity, associated with historic-age debris and several .~ })l"S,
_ is not that of a "large log _house." Other historic-age deb:-is
was found scattered through the forest along the first north-south
transect through this survey area, but we located no other
• structures. Diffuse charcoal was noted in the existing road cut,
but this may be due to past forest fires in the area. A swall
test pit dug atop the rocky knoll where the Vagt Lake Trail
makes a right-angle turn yielded 21 em of culturally sterile
soil over bedrock.
2) North bank of Falls Creek to proposed diversion dam-:
'J:he literature search identified one site, the Baggs Cabin, on
lower Falls Creek. Although it lay on our route to the diVersion
dam site, we could not locate it. We did, however, find a sluice,
a historic-age campsite, and the remains of the C. M. Brosius
-cabin further upstream as well as the NW and NE corner stakes f~r
" .. the r·1arathon 1, 2, and 3 placer claims, posted by Perry N., ?e:-::y
S., and 'l'ho!T:as Buchanan of Seward in 1981, and the Nl,'i corne:-o!
the adjacent Four Jokers 1 placer claim. Slightly north of th9
latter, on the road leading up to the Crm·m Point I'line, are
r~~ains of a lo~ structure and some historic debris. Other sites
10
identified in the literature search, the Crown Point IHne (SE'o'l192),
Cro\·m Point f"lountain Trail (Sm"140), and Crown Point' JvTine struc-
tures at localities A, :8, and C, lie above the area of direct
project impact and were not visited.
3) Pipeline outlet, south end of Grant Lake: This appears
t,
to be an old slide area. A· shovel test pit dug through the sod ."
approximately 10 m inland from the beach in line with the st~~ding
survey marker revealed 24 em of very wet, fine-grained, red-brown
. soil above gravel or stones. No cultural material was fOQ~d~
4)'Solars Sawmill_overland to proposed powerhouse site:
The literature search identified tY10 sites in this area, Solars
Sa'wmill and a trail between the mill and Upper Trail Lake. We
found the sawmill site to be as described by Yarborough, who
visited it in October 1981 (Yarborough 1981). We believe we
located at least part of the trail between the mill and Upper
Trail Lake which is shovm on the 1953 USGS map. Although it
had been recently brushed in places, it was flanked by old cut
stumps and some older wooden treads still bridged short wet sec-
'tions. As noted above, we did not find a branch of the trail
that led to the proposed powerhouse site on Upper Trail Lake as
indicated en the USGS map. A crew of biologists reported a
well-constructed trail, with historic debris, leading east out of
the next large cove to the north, but they lost it at the edge of
a muskeg. The old Portage Trail which leads from the railroad
bridge at Ivloose Pass through a pass in Section 31, T. 5 N., R. 1
Sev/ard j'Teridian (Plafker 1955: plate 2), is also' reported bv
the biological crew to be \'Iel1 corduroyed and easy to follow.
30th areas are outside the present project area and were not
''''
.-
...
. .,
...
11
included in the archeological survey. No cultural material,
other than a recent campfire, was found on the shores of the
powerhouse cove. Two small test pits, one on the south pro~o~tory
defining the cove and one on a small peninsula on the south'side
of the cove, revealed 10 cm of vegetation and culturally sterile
soil above bedrock. The soil under several uprooted trees in the
area yielded diffuse traces of charcoal, but there is also evi-
dence of an old burn in the area.
5) Shoreline of Upper Trail Lake fro~ the powerhouse site to
the mouth of Grant Creek: No cultural material other than OCC2S-
ional modern debris washed up on the beach was found. One roug~ly
rectangular hole, approximately 1 m by 2 m, was noted at the west
,1M end of the island which splits the mouth of Grant Creek. Its
bottom \'las obscured by shallow water, but a shovel probe irernediately
struck gravel. It could be the natural result of fluctuating
creek and lake levels. There was no associated cultural material.
6) Island· between upper and lower Grant Lake and adjacent
,. points of land: Aside from old signs of small-scale logging o~ the
..
.to
north adjacent point and a recent survey marker on the south
adjacent point, we noted no evidence of human activity.
As noted, the State Historic Preservation Officer reco~lle~ded
a second phase of archeological survey and testing once locations
of all construction sites, routes of access roads, trans~ission
lines, and pipelines, and material sources are identified on the
groll."1d. The following areas appear to warrant further survey.
1) The access road which parallels part of Vagt Lake T:-ail.
The proposed road passes through an area of high archeological
potential and we did not locate the 'Dortion which will pass
south of the existing access road.
2) The access road between Grar..t Lake and the proposed
powerhouse site.
12
3) The pipeline route between the diversion dam and its
intersection with the access road which parallels Vagt Lake Trail.
The remainder of the pipeline route passes over what appears to
be a slide area. While it may warrant a walk-over and examination
of any natural exposures, any cultural material is likely quite
deeply buried.
4) The access road between the powerhouse and the highway,
especially the portion between the highway and the bridge across.
the Trail Lakes narrows, as the latter area was not examined in
the present survey.
Cultural Resources Within the Project Area
The Alaska Northern Railway (SE','{029) and Iditarod Trail
(SEH148.and National Register of Historic Places) routes, the
Solars Savnnill site, and the trail between the Sawmill and Upper
Trail Lake will likely be directly affected by project construction.
r:!:he Crovm Point r'1ountain Trail (SEW140), Crown Point Mine (SEi'l192)
and associated structures at localities A, B, and C, structural
r'
....
remains along the lower mine access road, the Brosius cabin, sluice, "".
and camp identified along Falls Creek, and the Baggs Cabin site
\·;ill at most be only indirectly affected by proj ect construction
2r.d operation. Crovm POint/Trail Creek Station and the Stevenson
cabin will be affected only if the proposed access road in this
2..rea is moved to the north. It :Dust.be remembered, however, that
not all construction locati8ns have been identified on the gro~~d
....
t . .a
j ....
and examined by an archeologist. The project area may also
contain previously unrecorded cultural resources which could be
directly or indirectly affected by project construction.
13
The Iditarod Trail and Alaska Northern Railway roughly coi~
cide with the present route of the Alaska Railroad through the
project area. The Iditarod Trail was blazed in 1908 by the
Alaska Road Commission as a winter route between the port of
Seward and the gold fields of Nome and the intericr. Its import~~ce
dwindled with the decline in gold production in the interior a."ld
with the advent of airmail service in the 1920s (B11tl 1981 :19-31).
It has recently been designated a national historic trail a..YJ.d is
listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The first
spike of the Alaska Central Railroad was driven in Seward in 1904
and by 1905 fifty miles of track had been constructed. The Alaska
Central went into receivership in 1907, but in 1909 the Alaska
Northern Railway was formed. It constructed an additional 21
miles of track before going bankrupt in 1911. The tracks were
still used, however, by a gas car which regularly transported
mining supplies from Seward to the wagon road at Moose Pass (Barry
1973:114-116). When construction of the Alaska Railroad fr03
Seward to Fairbanks commenced in 1915, this section of track was
improved and the old right-of-vlay is still used by the present-day
railroad (Barry 1973:144-147). It is listed in the A~~S Invent cry.
The Solars Sav~ill site consists of a collapsed wooden struc-
ture; a roofless standing cabin of milled lumber with attached
woodshed, both in very poor condition; an outhouse, tipped over;
t\·/o small pi lea of rusted cans; two pairs of mining-car wheels;
a:1d assorted historic debris. Three large pulleys mounted on
14
heav-j timbers, wire cable, and two frameworks of timbers leading
down into Grant Creek constitute the remains of the mill itself.
The available literature provides little information on the
establishment or operation of this site. A report compiled by
the USDA-?orest Service in 1924 mentions that an area at the head
of Grant lake had been cut dver for a sawmill at the foot of the
lake, but maps which accompany the report do not show the mill
site (Holbrook 1924; R. Quillum, USDA-FS Seward, personal comm.).
A local resident very knowledgeable about the history of the area
provided more information. He believes that the mill first oper-
ated around 1927 or 1930. It was never a-commercially viable mill,
but was run from time to time by Al Solars, its owner, until his
death around 1941. The processed lumber was hauled out over a trail
by dog team, a little being sold to the railroad and some being
sold locally, but the mill never produced much. This account
fits the published information. When Plafker visited the area for
the USGS in 1952, the mill was abandoned and the lumber trail had
fallen into disuse. When M. Yarborough visited this site in 1981,
-he found a date of 13 January 1958 on a magazine used Q insulation
in the standing cabin, but it is quite likely that the cabin was
periodically occupied and modified after the mill itself was
abandoned.
The Crown Point MOlmtain Trail, Crown Point l\1ine, and asso-
ciated structures at localities A, B, and C all lie beyond the
area of direct project impact. The Black Butte vein was discovered
••
...
...
'here in 1906 by J. W. and C. E. Stephenson or Stevenson; it was one ~
of the earliest major discoveries in the Falls Creek drainage. In
1910 tte property was deeded to the Kenai-Alaska Gold Co. which,
in 1911, constructed a road fro~ the railroad to the mine
15
and a stamp mill, assay office, and other buildings in the vicin-
ity of locality A. In 1912 an 8200-foot aerial tram was completed
betv/een the mine and the mill. The mine was closed dm'ITI in 1917
,,'
(Martin et ale 1915:157-159; Johnson 1912:148, 150, 1919:175).
.... Its present name relates to the period 1935-1940 when it was
operated by the Crovm Point Mining Co., C. Brosius and Associates,
of Seward (Stewart 1937:48, 1939:39, 1941:74). It was opened
again in the late 1950s. The mine is presently connected to the
high\,Tay by a rough, fail"ly steep access road. As mentioned abo"tre,
~ our survey extended only as far as the proposed diversion dan
site and therefore did not include the Cro\vn Point mining proper-
ties. The trail and mine are included in the Ar~LS Inventory.
The remains of a structure of unpeeled logs located along
the CrO\'m Point TJIine access road also appear to lie outside the .
~'iii area of direct proj ect impact.· It, too, may have been associated
·flO
.....
with the mine. It is in very poor condition; only the SW co=ner
still stands a few tiers high. A thick growth of grass cove=s
plank flooring and rusted cans inside the structure. Corrugated
metal roofing lying around the outside of the structure is also
nearly obscured by the grass. A piece of machinery, probably a
boiler, lies on the opposite side of the road.
The Brosius cabin and the sluice and ca~p identified along
Falls Creek lie west of the proposed route of the diversion
pipeline and pipeline access road. All appear to be associated
with mining in the area. A recent branch of the mine's access
road cuts throu~h a trash deposit between the cabin and camp.
CnIy t",/o Vl2.11s of the roofless cabin of unpeeled logs still sta.."1d.
It ~ay have cauGht fire, ~s one of the roof beaDs is charred.
~ The c~bin co~tains a great deal of trash, including old shoee,
16
kitchen utensils, and bed frames. A faded sign which reads
B C. I>'1. Br 0 s ius Seward B \Vas found in the cabin near the doorway.
As mentioned above, C. Brosius and Associates operated the Cro· .... n
Point Mine in 1935-1940 •. A shed, now collapsed, adjoined the
cabin's north wall and a small structure is dug into the bluff
immediately south of the cabin. The latter has been undercut by
the recent road and erosion, and its precarious position precluded
a closer examination. The camp site west of the cabin appears
to be of approximately the same age. A sluice fashioned of Dine -..
and corrugated metal roofing lies in the bed of a small streaw
a short distance west of the camp and may have been contemporanecus
with the camp site.
The Baggs Cabin site, well to the west of the proposed con-
struction, was not located. It is shown on a map compiled by D.
H. Sleem in 1'910 (Mattson, personal communication) and may be
associated with mining activity in the area.
Crown FOint/Trail Creek Station and the stevenson Cabin site
lie north of the proposed route of an access road. As noted above,
these may be distinct sites or different names for a single site.
The Stevenson cabin is shovm on a map dated 1910 (Mattson, personal
c08munication) and may have been associated with the Stevenson
brothers who discovered gold at what was later to become the
CrQ\'ffi Point IfJine. Trail Creek Station, in approximately the same
location, was a stop at Mile 26 on the Alaska Northern Railway at
a slightly later date. In 1915 the Kenai-Alaska Gold Co., which
had taken over the Stevenson mining claims, had a large log house
\'lith an office and \'Jarehouce at this saDe milepost (Barry 1973:
1 !.5). The over!SrowTl cabin foundation ,,;'r:ich we located her~ is
.. '
".
...
17
small, measuring only about 4 m by 5 m. The poor state of pre-
.. servation of the fouIldation logs suggests that the structure
could indeed date to early in the twentieth century~ It is ass~-
ciated with a scattering of rusted cans, ~etal bands, and other
debris; a heap of large rusted cans or buckets; and two small
sQuare pits, one filled in, the other more recent in appearance.
Two larger pits nearby, one round and one rectangular and filled
with machinery, may also be associated with it. We found no
remains of a 1I1arge log.house." Crown POint/Trail Creek Station
is listed in the Ah~S Inventory.
Potential Project Impacts upon Anovm Cultural Resources
Direct irnpac·ts
Two proposed access roads will cross the routes of the
Idi tarod Trail (S:8';/148 and Nati onal Register of Historic Places)
and the Alaska Northern Railway (SEl,v029). These routes ~e now
occupied by the Alaska Railroad and are already crossed by g
number of access roads.
The Solars Sawmill site may be directly affected. In one
project alternative a bridge joining two access roads will occupy
~ nart of the site. In other project alternatives an access road
will nass to the north of the site and thus not directly affect
it. Such a road could, however, open the site to vandalism. The
structures at the site are in poor condition and the winter snows
could cause the last one to collapse within a few years. The
., rer::aining pulleys from the mill \·Jill probably withstand many more
years of weathering, but could easily be pushed into the creek and
Jest. There are also a few artifacts at the site, such as a
galvanized sink, mining-car wheels, and metal parts of the
18
pulleys, which might be attractive to collectors.
The trail between the sawmill and Upper Trail Lake will be
crossed or followed in places by an access road. As noted ao07e,
the west half of this trail is not well defined. No histori~
artifacts were found along the portion we were able to folloYl.
Indirect impacts
The Crown Point r10untain Trail (SEW140), Crown Point Mine
(SEW192) and associated structures at localities A, B, and C, and
the structural remains along the lower mine access road all lie
north and east of the project area and will not be directly
affected by project construction or operation. All are presently
accessible from the highway by a mining road, but beyond approxi~
mately one-half mile a four-wheel-drive vehicle with a winch is
needed. Construction of an access road to the proposed pipeline
and diversion dam may improve access to these sites somewhat ~~d
may increase the risk of vandalism. This would most likely affect
the structural remains on the lower mining road and locality A,
the closest to the project area.
The Brosius cabin, sluice, camp, and Baggs Cabin site lie
west of the project area. Construction of the diversion dam
, .. ,ould dewater Falls Creek and ~hus slightly change the settings
of sites located at the edge of the canyon above the creek, but
is not expected to increase erosion or otherwise affect these sites.
Cro\·m Point/Trail Creek Station (SEW021) and the Stevenson
Cabin site lie north of a proposed access road near a USDA-Forest
. Service recreation trail and an existing access road. They are
not eXDected to be affected by project construction or operation.
,..
.. '
...
....
-
References Cited
Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Division of ?arks
1981 Alaska Heritage Resources Survey Ind~x, updated
July 22, 1981. On file at Office of History and
Archeology, Division of Parks, Anchorage.
"0 '"
'.' Earry, Mary J.
,ill
',,"
1973 A History of Mining on the Kenai Peninsula. Alaska
Northwest Publishing, Anchorage.
Iditarod National Historic Trail Project Office, BL¥;
1981 The Iditarod National Historic Trail, Seward to Nome
Route. Vol. 1: A Comprehensive Hanagement Plan.
Bureau of land Management, Anchorage District Office,
Anchorage. ~
Johnson, B. L.
1912 Gold Deposits of the Seward-Sunrise Region, Kenai
Peninsula. In: Mineral Resources of Alaska: Renort
on Progress of Investigations in 19 1 1, by A. H. Erooks
et al., pp. 131-173. USGS Bull. 520. GovernT.ent
Printing Cffice, Washington, D. C.
1919
~artin, G.
1915
r''1ining in Central and Northern Kenai Peninsula. In:
Mineral Resources of Alaska: Report on Progress of
Investigations in 1917, by G. C. Nartin et al., pp.
175-176. USGS Bull. 692. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D. C.
C., B. L. Johnson, and U. S. Grant
Geology and Mineral Resources of Kenai Peninsula,
Alaska. USGS Bull. 587. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D. C.
T"Iattson, John
Personal com~unications. Archeologist, Sunervisor's
Office, Chugach National Forest, Anchorage:
Plafker, George
1955 Geologic Investigations of Proposed Power Sites at
Cooper, Grant, Ptarmigan and Crescent Lakes, Alaska.
USGS Bull. 1031-A. U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D. C.
Stewart, B. D.
1937 Report of the Commissioner of Mines to the Gover~or for
the Biennium Ended December 31, 1936. T~rritory of
Alaska, (Juneau?).
1939 Report of the Commissioner of ~ines to the Governor for
the Bienniu~ Znded December 31, 1932. Terrritoryof
Alaska, (Ju~eau?).
20 It'!!
Stewart, B. D. (~ont.)
1941 Report of the Commissioner of Mines to
the Biennium ~ded December 31, 1940.
Alaska, (Juneau?).
the Governor for
Territory of
~Yarborough, Michael R.
1981 Archeological
Lake, Alaska.
Anchorage.
survey of proposed drilling sites, Grant
Cultural Resource Consultants,
Addendum:
Holbrook, Wellman
1924 Land Classification Report on the Kenai Peninsula
Division of the Chugach National Forest, Alaska. On
file at Seward District Off!c-e;--Chugach National
Forest, Seward, Alaska.
fI'
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'"',
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""
Appendix: Site Reports
""
-
-
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:4011
Site name: Cabin.foQ~dation
Pertinent dates: approx. A.D. 1910
Location: swi Nwi SEt Section 13, T. 4 N., R. 1 W., Seward
~1eridian
Description: The foundation lies in a level clearing now vegetated
with grass and willows 5 m s?uth of the beginning of the Chugach
National Forest's Vagt Lake ~rail, which parallels the south shore
of Lower Trail Lake, and approximately 20 m east of the Alaska
Railroad track. ·The closest source of water is Lower Trail Lake.
This roughly square foundation of decaying logs, covered ..
with moss, grass, and willows, measures approximately 5 m NS by
4.4 mEW. Though the poor condition of the wood prevented an
accurate count, it appears that only one or two tiers of logs
remain in place in each wall. At least two grass-covered logs
lie outside the foundation, parallel to the east wall. from which
they may have fallen.
Associated features include a dump of large rusted cans or
buckets to the south and a small) square depression to the north-
east. The latter measures approximately 1.05 m NS by 0.9 mEW.
A shovel test 30 cm deep in its center revealed an organic layer,
varying from 2 cm thick on the north to 18 cm thick on the south,
underlain by cultural material and gray clayey soil mottled with
sand and gravel. The cultural material consisted of a few frag-
ments of rusted cans, a few small pieces of glass, and a carpal
or tarsal bone of a large herbivore. This material was not
collected. The test pit hit water at 25 cm below surface and was
abandoned and backfilled at a depth of 30 cm below surface. The
depression may represent an outhouse hole or trash pit which was
later filled in. Other trash, including rusted metal bands, cans,
a piece of pipe, a rubber overshoe, and half of a light blue
glass insulator which bears the inscription BROOKFIE ____ , lies
scattered around the foundation.
Other features which may be of more recent vintage are a,
square pit filled with water right at the south edge of the Vagt
Lake Trail; a large rectangular hole, just inland from the float-
plane dock, which contains a boiler, a metal rod, and a machine
part; and a pair of railroad-car wheels and a large machine part
iomediately east and a recent round pit east and slightly south
of the rectangular hole.
Significance: Crown Point/Trail Creek Station (SEW 021) and a
structure known as the Stevenson cabin are both reported to have
been located at approximately this location. The Stevenson
cabin, shown on a ~ap compiled by D. H. Sleem in 1910, may have
been associated with the Stephenson or Stevenson brothers, who
discovered gold at what was ·later to become the Crown Point Mine.
Trail Creek Station, in approximately the same location, was a
stop at Mile 26 on the Alaska Northern Railway at a slightly later
date. In 1915 the Kenai-Alaska Gold Co., which had taken over the
Stevenson mining claims in 1910, had a large log house with an
office and warehouse at this same milepost (Martin et ale 1915:
157-159; Barry 1973:145). The poor state of preservation of the
cabin fOQ~dation which we located here suggests that the structure
could indeed date to early in the twentieth century. The foundation
does not appear to be that of a "large log house,1I but we found
no other structural remains in the area. If Crown Point/Trail
Creek Station and the Stevenson cabin are in fact separate sites,
the foundation discovered more likely represents the latter.
Danger of destruction: There is no danger of destruction other
than that due to natural weathering.
References:
Barry, Mary J.
1973 A history of mining on the Kenai Peninsula. Alaska
Northwest Publishing, Anchorage.
;V;artin, G.
1915
Sleem, D.
1910
C., B. L. Johnson, and U. S. Grant
Geology and mineral resources of Kenai Peninsula, Alaska.
USGS Bull. 587. Government Printing Office, Washington,
D. C.
H.
["lap of Kenai mlnlng di strict and Iv'loose Pass regions,
Kenai precinct, Alaska. Information from this map
provided by Forest Archeologist, Chugach National
Forest, Anchorage, Alaska.
'Owner of property: Chugach Hational Forest
2221 E. Northern Lights Elvd., Suite 238
Anchorage, Alaska 99502
II'
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_.
.IM
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liM
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-
Location of cabin foundation.
27
L A
.~------~--~~-/~~~----------~--~ II . \'"
'c... \ 1/
A . L···
I :-~.
SEW ARD (8-7) QUADRANGLE
ALASKA
1:63.360 SERIES (TOPOGRAPHIC)
J .!~.
3 '.
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~( ____________________________ ) L~s
( )
o a o
o
0 0 0
...
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Sketch man, cabin foundation site. -
••
...
Oiiil
Cabin fo~~dation. Southeast corner of cabin foundation with some
of vegetation cleared away, looking west •
Cabin foundation. Hean of large cans or buckets south of cabin
foundation, looking south.
Cabin foundation. Metal bands to north of cabin foundation,
looking north.
... '
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..
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••
,iii
,''''
I~
...
Site name: Solars Sawmill
Fertinent dates: approx. A.D. 1924-1941
Location: NWi SEt SEi Section 6, T. 4 N., R. 1 E., Seward
Meridian
Description: The sawmill is located on a peninsula on the north
side of the rapids at the outlet of Grant Lake. The peninsula is
steep, with several small, relatively level benches or terraces
upon which the structural remains are found. The area around the
site supports a mature spruce forest in which a few sawn stumps
are visible and part of the site occupies a lichen-covered rock
• outcrop which overlooks the rapids.
The sawmill site consists of a collapsed wooden structure, a
standing cabin with an attached woodshed, an outhouse, three large
pulleys, two timber frameworks leading down into Grant Creek, and
assorted historic debris. The site was visited in 1981 by M.
Yarborough, who measured and briefly described the structures.
In 1982 we recorded additional details of construction and obtained
some local information on the histor~ of the site.
The collapsed wooden structure is located on the lowest bench
on the east side of the peninsula, just east of the rapids. It
was built of milled lumber, but its form and size are indiscernible
in its present condition. Its debris covers an area of approxi-
mately 7 m2 (Yarborough 1981 :2). Two pairs of mining-car wheels
lie under some young spruce between this structure and the rock
outcrop upon which the remains of the mill itself are located.
The standing cabin, constructed of milled lumber, is located
in the forest on a small bench above and about 10 m west of the
collapsed structure. It measures approximately 6 m NS by 4 rn EW
(Yarborough 1981 :3). It is in very poor condition, as the roof
and west wall have collapsed and the south and east walls lean
outward at precarious angles. The gable roof consisted of tar
paper sandwiched between two layers of vertical planks. The
walls were insulated with newspaper and magazines sandwiched
between a layer of horizontal planks on the inside and vertical
planks on the outside. Yarborough (1981 :3) found a date of 13
January 195e on one of the magazines. Slats nailed vertically
over chinks betwe.en the outside planks further reduced cold
drafts. The cabin had two windows, a small one in the center of
the west wall and one twice as wide in the center of the east wall.
It also had two doors, one in the north wall which led into an
attached shed and one in the south wall. A wooden door missing
most of its pan~ls lies just south of the cabin. Among the
debris inside the cabin are ·a bed in the northwest corner with a
large galvanized sink resting upon it, a set of shelves lying on
the floor near the east windov!s, and fragments of window glass.
The stove was probably located in the southwest corner. A col-
lapsing shed, built of milled lumber and measuring about 2 m NS
by 4 m Eh', is attached to the north wall of the cabin, (Yarborough
1981:3). It had a shed-type roof which sloped down toward the
north and is filled with scrap lumber. It apparently served as a
woodshed. Trash scattered outside-the cabin included a bucket,
stove parts, and rusted cans. Two "Preferred Stock" coffee cans
and a large "Schilling" black pepper can still bear identifiable
labels.
A trail leads from the standing cabin west to an outhouse
which has tumbled part way down a steep slope. Two small piles
of rusted cans lie just north of the outhouse.
Three large pulleys mounted on heavy timbers lie on a rock
outcrop overlooking the rapids, southeast of the outhouse and
west of the collapsed structure. A framework of timbers leads
down into Grant Creek on each side of the rock outcrop. The
pulleys, frameworks, and associated wire cable constitute the
re~ains of the mill itself.
The 1953 USGS map shows a trail between Upper Trail Lake and
the mill site. Signs of logging and a few traces of wooden treads
bridging short muddy stretches were visible along the portion of
the trail we were able to follow, but we lost the trail in the
vicinity of the divide between Upper Trail and Grant lakes.
~ignificance: A report compiled by the USDA-Forest Service in
1924 mentions that an area at the head of Grant Lake had been cut
over for a sa':lTTlill at the foot of the lake, but maps which accom-
pany the renort do not show the mill site (Holbrook 1924; R.
Quillum, USDA-FS Seward, personal communication). A local
...
...
,liI
. -
resident very knowledgeable about the history of the area provided
more information. He believes that the mill first operated
around 1927 or 1930. It was never a viable mill, but was run
from time to time by Al Solars, its o\mer, until his death around
1941. The processed lumber was hauled out over a trail by dog
team, a little being sold to the railroad and some being sold
locally, but the mill never produced much. This account agrees
with what little published information is available. When Plafker
visited the area for the ~SGS in 1952, the mill was abandoned and
the trail had fallen into disuse (Plafker 1955:2, 12). Given
the date of January 195~ found on one of the magazines used as
insulation in the standing cabin, it is quite possible that this
cabin was periodically occupied and modified by hunters or
trappers after the mill itself was abandoned.
Danger of destruction: The structures at the site are in poor
condition and the winter snows pould cause the last one to
collapse within a few years. The site is presently protected
from vandals by its difficult access, but if access were improved
a fe';! of the artifacts remaining at the site, such as the gal van-
ized sink and mining-car wheels, might prove attractive to collectors.
References:
Holbrook,
1924
Wellman
Land classification report on the Kenai Peninsula
division of the Chugach National Forest, Alaska. On
file at Seward District Office, Chugach National
Forest, SevJard, Alaska.
Plafv.er, George
1955 Geologic investigations of proposed power sites at
Cooper, Grant, Ptarmi~an and Crescent lakes, Alaska.
USGS Bull. 1031-A. Washington, D. C.: U. S. Govern-
ment Printing Office .
Yarborough, Michael
1981 Archeological survey of proposed drilling sites, Grant
Lake, Alaska. Anchorage: Cultural Resource Consultants.
C ... mer of property: Chugach National Forest
2221 E. Northern Lights Blvd., Suite 238
i~ Anchorage, Alaska 99502
Location of Solars Sawmill.
SEWARD (8-7) QUADRANGLE
ALASKA
I :63.360 SERIES (TOPOGRAPHIC)
149·15' ~~~--~2~5~'--~~----~~~~-:~JlJ2~~~~~l-~~~~:s~~~~~~~;:~~~~~~;=r=~~3a
\
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'.
1.
c "-0 \... ., I . -\ ,
...
...
Sketch m:'1'. Solars sawmi 11 site.
C.\\",HA
0 ... \ \-0"\(.
f ... \\s
Solars sawmill. Collapsed structure, looking roughly south.
,..-
Solars sawmill. ~1ining-car wheels west of collapsed structure.
....
Solars sawmill. Cutside
view of south wall of
standing cabin, looking
roughly north. Door
lies in foreground.
Solars sawmill. Collapsed
roof of standing cabin,
looking roughly north •
Solars sawmill. Inside
view of south wall of
standing cabin, looking-
southeast.
Solars sawmill. Standing cabin, detail of construction of west
wall, looking roughly east.
..
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-
Solars sawmill. Collapsing
woodshed attached to north
wall of standing cabin,
looki~g roughly east.
Solars sawmill. Galvanized
sink in northwest corner
of standing cabin •
Solars sawmill. Outhouse, looking roughly south.
"",
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Solars sa'wmill. Large pulleys mounted on heavy timbers. -
,II
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-
lWill
-Solars Sawmi ll.
pUlley.
Large
Solars sawmill.
pulley_
Large
Solars sawmill. Timber framework leading dovm into Grant Creek
west of pulleys, looking roughly east, upstream.
Solars sawmill. Wire cable
at framework leading down
into Grant Creek west of
pulleys.
,~
...
Site name: Sluice
Pertinent dates: approx. A.D. 1940
Location: swi NEt SEi-Section 18, T. 4 N., R. 1 E., Seward
fJIeridian
Description: The "sluice" is located on the north bank of the
Falls Creek canyon, on the f.irst small tributary stream to Falls
Creek above the Alaska Railroad. The creek is bridged by a
plank. We found no cultural material upstream from the plank.
Slightly below the plank the stream forks around a deposit of
large, loose cobbles. ~On the east fork the stream is directed
through a piece of stovepipe, below which the stream bed is lined
with pieces of corrugated sheet metal bent into a trough. The
metal trough extends to the edge of the canyon and the stream
drops straight down to Falls Creek, about 50 feet below. Scattered
along the sides of the east stream fork are pieces of lumber,
pieces of a wooden trough which may have been replaced by the
sheet metal, and wire cable.
The remains of a campsite and a ruined cabin dating to approx-
imately 1935-19~·0 lie within a few hundred feet to the east.
Significance: The "sluice" is probably associated with gold
prospecting on Falls Creek. The area has been prospected from the
first decade of the twentieth century to the present. Recently
staked placer claims are located approximately 500 feet up Falls
Creek from this site and an active placer claim is located near
the mouth of Falls Creek. The small stream could also have served
as a water source for the nearby camp and cabin, as Falls Creek
flows at the bottom of a deep canyon here.
Danger of destruction: There is no danger of destruction other
than that due to natural weatherin~.
References: None.
Owner of property: Chugach National Forest
2221 E. Northern Lights Blvd., Suite 238
Anchorage, Alaska 99502
Location of sl~ice.
SEWARD (8-7) QUADRANGLE
25' 'I: ;;.
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L A
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"Sluice" site. Sluice, pipe, and cobble deposit which divides
stream into two forks, looking north upstream.
II1II II Sluice 11 site. Fi pe and corrugated sheet metal trough through
which water flows, looking east. -
'1M
"Sluice" site. Corrugated sheet metal trough.
"Sluice" site. Wooden trough on east bank next to sluice, possibly
replaced with the corrugated sheet metal.
If'
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"Sluice" site. Debris associated with sluice, looking east
across stream.
Site name: Camp
Pertinent dates: some time in the period A.D. 1940-1960
Location: SI:Ii-NEt SEi Section 18, T .• 4 N., R. 1 E., Seward
r·1eridian
Description: The camp is located on the north bank of the Falls
. Creek canyon approximately 190 m west· of. the northwest corner of
the Marathon 1 placer claim and an equal distance downstream from
the waterfall where the 895-foot contour crosses Falls Creek. It
lies in a small clearing surrounded.by a very dense growth of
young spruce with trunks app~oximately 1 to 2 inches in diameter.
The nearest sources of water are a small stream with a sluice a
short distance to the west and Falls Creek which flows through the
canyon about 50 feet below.
The camp area measures approxim~tely 3.6 m NS by 6.5 mEW.
Along the south edge lie some planks and corrugated metal roofing.
A cache box, with quarter-inch wire mesh covering the top, is
nailed to the south side of a large spruce above a table which.is
also nailed to the tree. Leaning against the north side of the
same tree is a ladder, made of unpeeled saplings, which leads up
to a board nailed ~o the spruce about 3 m above the ground.
Eoards are nailed at about 3 m and 4 m above the ground on another
spruce a short distance to the north. Some lumber lies between
the two trees, which may have supported some type of cache. Other
material scattered about the site includes a Borden's Evaporated
Iltilk crate, a Sherwin-\'lilliams Paint crate, a large square can·
with a wire handle, pieces of pipe, a small metal door, a plastic
potato bag which says "Alaska l}uggets--Palmer, Alaska," a large
bent piece of rusted sheet metal, approximately one-eighth inch
thick, ' . ."i th regular perforations, and two wooden wheel s with rims
of galvanized sheet metal with regular perforations. Some cans and
other trash also lie in a heap southwest of the clearing.
A road cut which extends from the Crown Point Mine road down
10ward Falls Creek lies immediately east of the camp and the
Brosius cabin, probably occupied in the period 1935-1940, lies
slightly to the north on the opposite side of the road.
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.. <lII
....
• ,j;j.
Significance: Th~ camp is very likely associated with gold pros-
pecting on Falls Creek. The area has been prospected from the
first decade of the twentieth century to the present. Judging
from the size of the young spruce around the clearing, the camp
is at least 20 years old and may be older. It may be associated
with the nearby Brosius cabin, which probably dates to the
period 1935-1940 •
Danger of destruction: There is no danger of destruction other
than that due to natural weathering.
References: None.
Owner of property: Chugach National Forest
2221 ~. Northern Lights Blvd., Suite 238
Anchorage, Alaska 99502
Location
,
\. ""r-:. _ "/ -~\..-! '\' '''' '\ "\ j
" \ ." ''. .'\. . .., :=-
of camp.
QUADRANGLE
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o
5?'i+d
CLf r ro~ i"' .... 1. (..
sc. .... 1 (..
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Sketch map, camp site.
I i &
e
I ,
To ro .. J
;7
I"
Camp site. Cache box and table nailed to spruce and scattered
camp debris, looking north. Shovel provides scale.
Camp site. Ladder of
unpeeled saplings and
board nailed horizontally
to spruce ca. 3 m above
ground, looking west.
Cache box and table nailed
to tree are visible at
left.
lit"
...
.'
.. . '
,,"' ..
!III"
...
Camp site. Wooden wheels with metal rims, looking east. A metal
_ door with a plastic potato bag lies between them.
.I'.~,
N,
Camp site. View of perfor-
ated sheet metal rims on
wooden wheels, looking east.
A large bent piece of
perforated sheet metal is
visible at top left.
Site name: Brosius Cabin
Fertinent dates: A.D. 1935-1940
Location: S\'I-1-NE':; SEi Section 18, T. 4 N., R. 1 E., Seward
Meridian
Description: The structure is located on the north side of
. Falls Creek canyon on a small bench some 50 to 75 feet above the
creek. The northwest corner of the Marathon 1 placer claim lies
about 30 m uphill to the northeast, and a waterfall where the
895-foot contour crosses Falls Creek is located an equal distance
upstream. Immediately to the west of the cabin is a steep road
spur which leads from the Crown Point Nine road down toward Falls
Creek. The cabin ruins stand in a clearing, but young spruce
grow near it and mature spruce forest grows to the east and north.
The nearest sources of water are Falls Creek and a small stream
with a sluice some 100 m to the west.
The cabin measures 5.1 m NS by 6.3 m EW.It was built of
unpeeled double-notched logs chinked with moss. On the inside
of the north wall laths were nailed over the chinking, presumably
to reduce drafts. The north wall and the west wall between the
northwest corner and the door jamb still stand eight logs high.
The east wall stands eight logs high at the north end and five or
six logs high at the south end. The remaining walls have collapsed.
The east wall has a central window frame without glass and, as
mentioned, there was a door in the west wall. Nails pounded into
the north wall probably served as hooks on which to hang things.
No flooring was noted, but may be present.
The structure appears to have had a shed roof which slanted
down toward the south. A small fragment of the roof preserved in
the northeast corner consisted of several layers of a coarse
fabric resembling burlap covered with a sparkling sandy material,
. possibly decayed shingles, sandwiched between corrugated sheet
metal on the inside and tar paper on the outside. A charred beam
leaning against the wall near the northWest corner suggests that
the roof burned. I did not note any charring of the standing
.. '
01"
.. '
walls, but a dense scatter of charcoal fragments extends from the -
.. '
southwest corner half way along the collapsed south wall.
A shed measuring 2.95 m NS by 4.4 m EVl was attached to the
cabin's north wall. It has completely collapsed, but machine
parts and pieces of metal roofing lie among the ruins.
A great deal of trash is associated with the cabin. One -metal bed frame stands in the southeast corner and another lies
nearby, outside the cabin. ·A stove may once have stood in -the
southwest corner where there is a concentration of charcoal. A
piece of stovepipe lies nearby, outside the doorway. Inside the
cabin, the heaviest concentration of trash lies in the southwest
quarter and included boots, shoes, a can of eating utensils, and
machine parts. A wooden sign lying just inside the door bears
faint lettering which reads "C. M. Brosius--Seward." Outside'
the cabin are pieces of metal roofing and rusted cans. The
existing road appears to have cut through a trash heap, as rusted
cans are also found in the berm on the opposite side of the road~
East of the cabin is the hood of a car or truck. A railing has
been nailed to a tree at the edge of the cliff east of the cabin,
forming a little walkway.
An associated structure is dug into the hillside below and
southwest of the cabin. As it has been undermined by the road
cut and erosion, I did not descent to measure or examine it
closely. It appears to be built of milled lumber and has a roof
of corrugated sheet metal. It appears too large to have been
an outhouse.
Significance:
in the area.
This cabin is most likely related to gold mining
The Crown Point Mine, which lies north of Falls
Creek r.ear the summit of a nearby mountain, was operated by the
Crown Point Mining eornpany, C. Brosius and Associates, Seward,
in the period 1935-1940 (Stewart 1937:48, 1939:39, 1941 :74).
Danger of destruction: There is little danger of destruction other
than that due to natural weathering. The associated structure
'dug into the hillside may soon be lost to erosion. Although a
~ining road passes right by the cabin, it is impassible without a
fou::--'dheel-drive vehicle. rfJost "collectables" appear already to
have been salva€ed by the for~er owner or removed by later visitors.
Heferences:
Stewart, B. D.
1937 Renort of the Commissioner of Mines to
the biennium ended December 31, 1936.
Territory of Alaska.
the Governor for
(Juneau?):
1939 Report c.f the Commissioner of Mines to the Governor for
the biennium ended December 31, 1938. (Juneau?):
Territory of Alaska.
1941 Report of the Commissioner of Mines to the Governor for
the biennium ended December 31, 1940. (Juneau?):
Territory of Alaska.
Owner of property: Chugach National Forest
2221 E. Northern Lights Blvd., Suite 238
Anchorage, Alaska 99502
.,
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"',
Location of Brosius cabin.
SEWARD (8-7) QUADRANGLE
I
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Sketch ~ap, Prosius cabin.
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...
."
II"
toO"
10"
Erosius cabin. West wall
of cabin, looking east.
Brosius cabin. Detail of
construction of northwest
corner, looking south.
Brosius cabin. Interior view of east wall, looking east. Note'
bed frame at right.
Brosius cabin. Collapsed
portion of west wall and
collapsed south wall,
•
, looking southeast. North _
side of door jamb is
visible at left.
-
...
,.,
,011' Ercsius caOln. One charred
a~d one unchayred roof beam
i~side cabin near northwest
corner, looking west. Note
,mess chinking between logs
ar.d laths nailed over
cracks.
Brosius cabin. Roofing
preserved in northeast
corner, looking northeast.
Brosius cabin. Collapsed shed north of cabin, looking east.
Brosius cabin.
southeast.
Interior view of southeast corner, looking
..'
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.....
'.,.
I •
... ,
ii!iiIl
"'.
....
Brosius cabin.
Seward."
Brosius cabin. Trash
inside cabin near south~
west corner, looking south.
Note heavy concentration
of charcoal at center left.
Sign inside cabin near door: "C. M. Brosius--
,Brosius cabin. Structure
built into hillside south
of cabin, looking north
from road cut.
Brosius cabin. Corrugated
metal roofing outside
cabin near southwest corner,
looking northeast.
1I11~
~'"
...
••
3rosiuG cabin. Roof of
structure built into hill-
side sout~ of cabin, looking
south and down from cabin.
Brosius cabin. West wall
of structure built into
hillside south of cabin,
looking east.
"
Site name: Log structure
Pertinent dates: approx. A.D. 1940
Location: NWt swt Section 17, T. 4 N., R. 1 E., Seward Meridian
Description: This collapsed structure lies approximately 75 m .
north of the edge of Falls Creek canyon in a large, fairl~ level,
grassy clearing dotted with -cow parsnip just below treeline.
The Crown Point rUne road passes immediately north of it and the
juncture of the NE corner of the Marathon 3 placer claim with the
HW corner of the Four Jokers 1 placer claim lies a short distance
to the south. The nearest source of water which we identified
is Falls Creek, but several small mountain streams cross the road
to the west and may cross it to the east as well.
The structure was built of unpeeled logs which have been
flattened on the inside surface. Only the southwest c~rner is
still relatively intact, and that stands only a few tiers high.
The structure's dimensions were approximately 3.6 m NS by 4.85 m
E\v, but accurate measurement is difficult because the east and
north walls appear to have fallen outward. The north wall was
at least five logs high when it collapsed. No windows are eVident,
but the doorway appears to have been in the west wall. Under the
grass inside the structure is a plank floor which runs EW and cor-
rugated metal roofing lies under the grass around the outside.
Recent and old cans were found in and on the grass inside the
structure.
Associated material includes a small rusted boiler on the
opposite side of the road and a small, square depression which
lies 4.4 m east and slightly south of the structure. The latter
measures approximately 1.2 m by 1.2 m and may have served as an
outhouse or cache hole. A bulldozed clearing and a recent camp-
site in the trees south of the structure are most likely associated
wi th the recent staking of the fJ!arathon and Four Jokers placer
claiiTIs.
Sig~ificance: This structure is most likely associated with
gold mining in the area, possibly with the Crown Point Mine
which lies near the summit of the mountain risin~ to the north.
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'fhe gold vein at 'the Crown Point rUne was dispovered in 1906 by
J. W. and C. E. Ste~henson or stevenson and developed in earnest
by the Kenai-Alaska Gold Co. in the period 1910-1916 (Martin et
ale 1915:157-159; Johnson 1919:175). It was opened again in the
period 1935-1940 b~ the Crown Point Mining Co., C. Brosius and
Associates, of Seward, and operated by others from 1955 until at
least 1960 (Stewart 1937:48; 1939:39; 1941 :74). The logs of the
structure appear to be too sound to date to the 1910s. The struc-
ture bears some resemblance to the Brosius cabin located further
dovmstream in that it was built of unpeeled, double-notched logs
with a roof of corrugated sheet metal, and may date to approximately
the same period (1935-1940).
The maps posted at the corners of the Marathon placer claims
identify the structure as an lI old barn. II It may have served as
a waystation on the road up to the Crovm Point Mine.
Danger of destruction: There is no d~~ger of destruction other
than that due to natural weathering.
References:
Johnson, B. L.
1919 Mining in central and northern Kenai Peninsula. In:
Eartin, G.
1915
Mineral resources of Alaska: report on progress of
investigations in 1917, by G. C. Martin et al., pp.
175-176. USGS Bull. 692. \'Jashington, D. C.: Govern-
ment Printing Office.
C., B. L. Johnson, and U. S. Grant
Geology and mineral resources of Kenai Peninsula,
Alaska. USGS Bull. 587. Washington, D. C.: Govern-
ment Printing Office.
Stewart,
1937
B. D.
1939
Renort of the Commissioner of Mines to the Governor for
the biennium ended Dec. 31, 1936. (Juneau?): Territory
of Alaska.
Reoort of the Commissioner of Mines to the Governor for
the biennium ended Dec. 31, 1938. (Juneau?): Territory
of Alaska.
1941 Report of the Commissioner of Mines to the Governor for
the biennium ended Dec. 31, 1940. 0uneau?): Territory
of Alaska.
C",mer of property: Churrach National Forest
2221 E. Northern Lights El vd., Suite 238
Anchorage, Alaska 99502
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Location of log structure.
SEWARD (B-7) QUADRANGLE
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Sketch map, log structure.
,
Log structure. View west across remains of structure.
Lorr structure. Detail of southwest corner, looking north. This
is the only corner of the structure still intact.
Log structure. View south along west wall. Stumps in foreground
are remnants of west wall still wedged between logs of the north
wall which has fallen outward.
Log structure. Boiler lying across road to north of structure.
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APPENDIX B
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A CAPTURE AND REMOVAL METHODOLOGY (ZIPPIN 1959)
AND ITS APPLICATION TO THE GRANT LAKE PROJECT
We were required by Ebasco Services, Inc. to attempt to quantify
the juvenile fish population of Grant Creek using a capture and
removal methodology (Zippin 1958). This removal method of population
estimation was developed for estimating small mammal populations using
kill traps set over several trapping periods. We modified the
technique for use in Grant Creek by establishing a net-enclosed study
si te from which fish could be removed with an electroshocker in
several complete passes through the site.
The assumptions that underlie this method are:
1.
2.
3.
The population must be essentially stationary, i.e., the
joint effect of birth rates, death rates, immigration, and
emigration must be negligible during the period of trapping .
The probability of capture during a trapping is the same for
each animal exposed to capture .
The probability of capture remains constant from trapping to
trapping, i.e., the animals do not become trap shy and trap-
ping conditions remain the same.
According to the assumptions listed above, it is expected that
the number of individuals captured in the first trapping series will
exceed the number of individuals captured in the second and following
trapping series. The recommended method of estimating population size
from data collected in a removal program is the mu1tinominal method
outlined by Zippin (1958).
The considerations we faced in attempting the capture and removal
method in Grant Greek include:
1. The streamflows during the time of the year when juvenile
fish are most active (July through October) are too high to
allow effective blocking of a portion of the stream with a
seive net. The only suitable period of low flow occurs in
early spring; therefore, our attempt took place in May 1982.
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2.
3.
Even though the flows in May were comparatively low, we had
extreme difficulty setting and maintaining the \-inch mesh
seine nets in the high velocity waters of Grant Creek.
The difficulty of maintaining our nets and, thus, establish-
ing a discrete popUlation over a long period of time pre-
cluded the use of minnow traps and forced us to use an
electroshocker. We feel that electroshocking in a stream
with very low conductivity (14 to 16 ~hos/cm) may be an
inefficient sampling technique when used for such an
application.
Estimates of population size based on data from a removal
program are not expected to be very close to the actual
population unless large proportions of the population are
captured. Ideally, the minimum number of individuals
trapped should not be less than 200 (Zippin, 1958). To
achieve this level of capture in Grant Creek a fairly large
sample area was required.
The methodology was attempted for a 235-foot reach in sample
areas 1 and 2 (Exhibit 1). This reach was blocked to the passage of
fish by the installation of two l6-inch seine nets across the entire
width of the stream. The downstream net persistently became fouled by
algae dislodged by the investigators' activities and was breached
several times during the course of the effort. It is impossible to
determine if this allowed an appreciable immigration or emigration of
fish.
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Exhibit 1. Capture and removal confinement area, Grant Creek, 1982.
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Confinement area
Islands
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Three passes were made in the study area with the electroshocker,
and the captured fish were removed from the area. The results of this
effort are as follows:
NUMBER OF FISH
Pass 1 Pass 2 Pass 3
King Salmon 22 42 15
Silver Salmon 3 6 2
Dolly Varden 10 10 2
Rainbow Trout 0 7 0
Sculpin 10 26 12
TOTAL FISH 45 91 31
These data do not conform to the expected results of removal
technique. We believe that the majority of these fish, including many
developing alevins of fry, were utilizing the interstitial habitat of
the study area. Many were not captured in the initial electroshock-
ing; however, they were stimulated to emerge from this habitat into
the stream where they were captured on the second electroshocking
attempt. This phenomenon and the inability to maintain a discrete
study area would render the validity of a population estimate suspi-
cious.
A length/frequency histogram of the king salmon, coho salmon,
Dolly Varden, and rainbow trout taken by electroshocker during this
exercise is presented in Exhibit 2.
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KING SALMON
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C(HJ SAlJIlN
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WlllIi 12
RAINBOW
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DOU. Y VARDEN
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Exhibit 2. Length/frequency histogram of king salmon, coho salmon, Dolly Varden,
and rainbow trout taken by electro shocker during the performance of
the block and removal methodology, May 1982.
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-APPENDIX C
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PLANT SPECIES IDENTIFIED FROM THE
GRANT LAKE STUDY AREA
BOTANICAL NMIES
Sphagnum sp.
Cladonia spp.
Lycopodium complanatum
Equisetum arvense
Cryptograrna crispa
Athyrium filix-femina
Woodsia ilvensis
Gymnocarpium dryopteris
Picea glauca
P. sitchensis
P. mariana
Tsuga heterophylla
T. mertensiana
Calamagrostis canadensis
Trisetum spicatum
Festuca altaica
F. rubra
Eriophorum sp.
Rhynchospora alba
Carex microchaeta
C. rhynchophysa
Luzula walenbergii subsp. piperi
Veratrum viride
Allium schoenoprasum
Fritillaria camschatcensis
Streptopus amplexifolius
Populus balsamifera
Salix arctica
S. stolonifera
S. barclayi
S. alaxensis
S. pulchra
S. sitchensis
Betula nana
B. papyrifera
Alnus crispa subsp. sinuata
Urtica gracilis
Oxyria digyna
Montia siberica
Nuphar polysepalum
Aquilegia formosa
Aconitum delphinifolium
Anemone richardsonii
Ranunculus trichophyllus var. trichophyllus
R. macounii
Thallctrum sparsiflorum
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COMMON NAMES
creeping Jenny
horsetail
parsley fern
ladyfern
white spruce
Sitka spruce
black spruce
western hemlock
mountain hemlock
bluejoint
spike trisetum
tufted fescue
cottongrass
white beakrush
finely-awned sedge
woodrush
false hellebore
wild chive
chocolate lily
claspleaf twistedstalk
cottonwood
arctic willow
oval leaf willow
barclay willow
feltleaf willow
diamondleaf willow
Sitka willow
dwarf birch
paper birch
Sitka alder
slim nettle
mountainsorrel
Siberian miners lettuce
yellow pond lily
western columbine
monkshood
white water crowfoot
fewflower meadowrue
BOTANICAL NAMES
Drosera anglica
D. rotundifolia
Sedum roseum
Boykinia richardsonii
Saxifraga tricuspidata
S. punctata subsp. pacifica
Tiarella trifoliata
Parnassia palustris
Ribes glandulosum
R. laxiflorum
R. triste
Spiraea beauverdiana
Luetkea pectinata
Aruncus sylvester
Sorbus sitchensis
Amelanchier alnifolia
Rubus pedatus
R. chamaemorus
R. idaeus
R. spectabilis
Potentilla fruticosa
Sanguisorba stipulata
Rosa acicularis
Lupinus nootkatensis
Geranium erianthum
Viola epipsila subsp. repens
Epilobium angustifolium
E. latifolium
Echinopanax horridum
Heracleum lanatum
Cornus canadensis
Moneses uniflora
Empetrum nigrum
Ledum palustre subsp. decurnbens
Menziesia ferruginea
Phyllodoce aleutica
Cassiope stelleriana
Andromeda polifolia
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
A. alpina
Vaccinium vitis-idaea
V. caespitosum
V. ovalifolium
V. uliginosum
Oxycoccus microcarpus
Primula cuneifolia subsp. saxifragifolia
Trientalis europaea
Gentiana glauca
Lomatogonium r:otatum
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COMMON NAMES
sundew
roundleaf sundew
roseroot
Alaska boykinia
threebristle saxifrage
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laceflower
northern grass
skunk currant
trailing black
of Parnassus
Pt
currant
American red currant
Alaska spirea
goatsbeard
sitka mountain ash ... serviceberry
strawberry-leaf blackberry ...
cloudberry
red raspberry
salmonberry
shrubby cinquefoil
burnet
pricly rose
nootka lupine
cranesbill
marsh violet
fireweed
riverbeauty
devil's club
cowparsnip
bunchberry
single delight
crowberry
Labrador tea
rusty menziesia
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Aleutian mountain heather .,
Alaska moss heath
dwarf bogrosemary
bearberry
alpine bearberry
lingonberry
dwarf blueberry
early blueberry
bog blueberry
small cranberry
primrose
European starflower
glaucous gentian
star gentian
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BOTANICAL NAMES
Menyanthes trifoliata
Polemonium pulcherrimum
Myosotis alpestris subsp. asiatica
Mimulus guttatus
Veronica wormskjoldii
Pedicularis verticulata
Galium boreale
sambucus racemosa
Viburnum edule
Linnaea borealis
Campanula rotundifolia
Achillea millefolium
Artemisia tilesii subsp. elator
A. arctica
Petasites hyperboreus
Arnica frigida
Taraxacum alaskanum
Hieracium triste
COMMON NAMES
buckbean
Jacob's ladder
forget-me-not
monkeyflower
alpine speedwell
lousewort
northern bedstraw
Pacific red elder
highbush cranberry
northern twinflower
harebell
yarrow
mountain woodworm
arctic sagewort
sweet coltsfoot
Alaskan dandelion
hawkweed
Species may occur in the study area but was not observed.
3