June 14, 2011 - The National Park Service (NPS), in cooperation with the California Department of Fish and Game, the U.S. Geological Survey, and the U.S. Forest Service-Inyo National Forest, is seeking public comments about a proposal to conduct population monitoring, research, and translocation of federally endangered Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis sierrae) within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
Results from these projects would directly aid in planning and implementing actions identified as necessary to enable the recovery of this endangered species. Proposed project activities, including helicopter-supported capture of bighorn sheep with net guns, would be conducted primarily in wilderness areas of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks and on adjoining Inyo National Forest lands. Bighorn sheep movements would be remotely monitored using VHF radio-transmitters and Global Positioning Systems collars. Researchers would also collect complementary data on meadow habitat characteristics and the responses of bighorn sheep to wilderness recreation (pack stock presence, grazing, and visitor activities). An environmental assessment has been prepared to evaluate four alternatives, including no action, and the associated environmental impacts from implementing the proposed project. To obtain additional information about the proposed project, visit the NPS Planning, Environment and Public Comment (PEPC) website at: http://parkplanning.nps.gov/seki or request more information from Environmental Protection Specialist Nancy Hendricks at (559) 565-3102. All public comments must be received by July 14, 2011.
Public comments may be submitted via the PEPC website at http://parkplanning.nps.gov/seki In addition, you may direct comments regarding this project to the park in writing by either hand-delivering or mailing your comments to:
Superintendent
Attn: Bighorn Sheep EA
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
47050 Generals Highway
Three Rivers, CA 93271
Public comments, including personal identifying information (name, address, phone number, e-mail address, etc.) may be made available to the public at any time. Even if a commenter requests to have personal identifying information withheld, the NPS cannot guarantee this will be done. The NPS will always make submissions from organizations or businesses and from individuals identifying themselves as representatives of or officials of organizations or businesses available for public inspection in their entirety. Anonymous comments will not be accepted.
The NPS is obligated to protect bighorn sheep and critical habitat, as well as implement appropriate components of the Recovery Plan for Sierra Nevada Bighorn Sheep. The project meets the goals of the recovery plan and will provide the park with additional information in development of a new Wilderness Stewardship Plan and Environmental Impact Statement for Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
By submitting a comment you consent to our rules. Please use your real first and last name, not a nickname or alias. Thank you.
