The Federal Register

Payette National Forest, Idaho, Golden Hand 1 and 2 Lode Mining Claims Plan of Operations

Fri, Nov 21 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The USDA Forest Service will prepare an environmental impact statement (EIS) for the proposed Plan of Operations (POO) for the Golden Hand 1 and 2 lode mining claims in the Frank ChurchRiver of No Return (FCRONR) Wilderness on the Krassel Ranger District, Payette National Forest. The purpose of the POO is to allow for collection of subsurface geological information on the claims. The EIS will disclose the environmental effects of the POO submitted by American Independence Mines and Minerals, Inc. The Forest Service now invites comments on the scope of the Analysis and the issues to address.

Information Collection; Evaluating Community Knowledge, Beliefs, Attitudes, and Preferences Concerning Fire and Fuels

Thu, Nov 20 2008 11:00:00 GMT

In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, the Forest Service is seeking comments from all interested individuals and organizations on the extension with revision of a currently approved information collection, Evaluating Community Knowledge, Beliefs, Attitudes and Preferences Concerning Fire and Fuels Management in Southwestern Forest, Woodland and Grassland Ecosystems.

Information Collection; 4-Rivers Application and Drawing

Wed, Nov 19 2008 11:00:00 GMT

In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, the Forest Service is seeking comments from all interested individuals and organizations on the new information collection, 4Rivers Application and Drawing.

Notice of Resource Advisory Committee Meeting

Wed, Nov 19 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Pursuant to the authorities in the Federal Advisory Committees Act (Pub. L. 92463) and under the Secure Rural Schools and Community SelfDetermination Act of 2000 (Pub. L. 110343) the Modoc National Forest's Modoc County Resource Advisory Committee will meet Monday, December 1, 2008 in Alturas, California 96101, for a business meeting. The meetings are open to the public.

Trinity County Resource Advisory Committee

Tue, Nov 18 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Trinity County Resource Advisory Committee (RAC) will meet at the Trinity County Office of Education in Weaverville, California, December 8, 2008 beginning at 6:30 p.m. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss proposed projects under Title H of the Secure Rural Schools and Community SelfDetermination Act of 2000.

Kemmerer Ranger District, Bridger-Teton National Forest, WY; Kemmerer Grazing and Rangeland Vegetation Management

Mon, Nov 17 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Bridger-Teton National Forest will prepare an Environmental Impact Statement to analyze the effects of continued authorization of grazing on 15 sheep allotments on the Kemmerer Ranger District in southwest Wyoming. The project area encompasses 165,575 acres of National Forest System lands within Lincoln County of western Wyoming. Most of the project area's east boundary is west of Commissary Ridge; the west boundary is Salt Creek. The center of the project area lies roughly 17 air miles northeast of Cokeville, Wyoming. The allotments included in the analysis are: Lower Salt Creek, Buckskin Knoll, Lake Alice, Smiths Fork, Aspen Springs, Basin Creek, Devil's Hole, Elk Creek, Green Knoll, Indian Creek, Lake Mountain, Pole Creek, Sams Allen Creek, South Fontenelle and Spruce Creek Allotments.

The analysis contained in the EIS will be used by the Responsible Official to decide whether or not, and if so, how to authorize livestock grazing and manage rangeland vegetation within the project are

Opal Creek Scenic Recreation Area (SRA) Advisory Council

Mon, Nov 17 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Opal Creek Scenic Recreation Area Advisory Council meetings will convene in Stayton, Oregon on Wednesday, December 3, 2008. These meetings are scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m., and will conclude at approximately 8:30 p.m. Meetings will be held in the South Room of the Stayton Community Center located on 400 West Virginia Street in Stayton, Oregon.

The Opal Creek Wilderness and Opal Creek Scenic Recreation Area Act of 1996 (Opal Creek Act) (Pub. L. 104208) directed the Secretary of Agriculture to establish the Opal Creek Scenic Recreation Area Advisory Council. The Advisory Council is comprised of thirteen members representing state, county and city governments, and representatives of various organizations, which include mining industry, environmental organizations, inholders in Opal Creek Scenic Recreation Area, economic development, Indian tribes, adjacent landowners and recreation interests. The council provides advice to the Secretary of Agriculture on preparation of a comprehensive Opal

Black Hills National Forest, Mystic Ranger District, SD, Slate Castle Project Area

Thu, Nov 13 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Forest Service will prepare an environmental impact statement on a proposal to use multiple vegetation treatments focused on reducing the threat to ecosystem components including forest resources from an existing insect and disease epidemic (mountain pine beetle), creating a landscape condition more adapted to fire and that reduces potential for high severity wildfire near atrisk communities and in the wildlandurban interface. The proposal is being planned for the 44,500 acre Slate Castle Project Area that includes about 38,300 acres of National Forest System land and about 6,200 acres of interspersed private land. The project area generally extends from northwest of Hill City, South Dakota and east of Deerfield Lake. This project will be conducted as an authorized project under Section 102 of the Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2003 (HFRA). Actions proposed for the Slate Castle Project Area include the following:

Thin and harvest approximately 31,000 acres of pine stands us

Land Management Plan Guidance

Thu, Nov 13 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Forest Service is issuing an interim directive revising Forest Service Handbook 1909.12, chapter 10, to guide agency employees in developing, amending, or revising land management plans for units of the National Forest System about the content of land management plans. The chapter focuses particularly on writing plan components, describing the monitoring program, and considering individual resources during the planning process. The intended effect of issuing this interim directive is to provide consistent, overall guidance to Forest Service line officers and agency employees. As an interim directive, the direction is effective immediately. Public comment is invited and will be considered in developing a final directive.

Genesis, Inc. Exploration Drilling Project Kootenai National Forest, Lincoln County, MT

Wed, Nov 12 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Genesis, Inc. submitted a revised Plan of Operations for exploration drilling near Troy, Montana. This revised plan adds drilling at seven sites on National Forest System Roads to the exploratory helicopterassisted drilling described in the July 25, 2008, Notice of Intent to Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).

Scoping Comment Date: Comments concerning the revised proposed action must be postmarked by December 8, 2008, to be considered in the draft EIS.

Fee Schedule for Linear Rights-of-Way Authorized on National Forest System Lands

Mon, Nov 10 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Forest Service is hereby adopting the Bureau of Land Management (BLM)'s revised linear rightofway fee schedule in 43 CFR 2806.20 for linear rightsofway authorized on National Forest System (NFS) lands under Title V of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA), 43 U.S.C. 17611771, and Section 28 of the Mineral Leasing Act (MLA), 30 U.S.C. 185, as required by Section 367, Subtitle F, Title III, of the Energy Policy Act of 2005, Public Law 10958, 119 Stat. 685 (August 8, 2005). Additionally, the Forest Service is adopting this fee schedule for linear rightsofway authorized on NFS lands under other statutes.

Notice of Availability of Final Environmental Impact Statement and Record of Decision for the Southern Rockies Lynx

Fri, Nov 7 2008 11:00:00 GMT

In accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the National Forest Management Act, (NFMA), the USDA Forest Service announces the availability of the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) and Record of Decision (ROD) for the Southern Rockies Lynx Amendment and the opening of the administrative appeal period.

White River National Forest; Colorado; Wild and Scenic Rivers Suitability Study

Fri, Nov 7 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Forest Service is conducting a Wild and Scenic Rivers suitability study on four eligible river segments described in the WRNF Land and Resource Management Plan 2002 Revision. These segments are Colorado River Segments 1 and 2 and Deep Creek Segments 1 and 2. The results of the suitability study will be analyzed and incorporated into the Bureau of Land Management, Glenwood Springs and Kremmling Field Offices Environmental Impact Statement for their Resource Management Plan Revisions that is already underway. Separate Records of Decision will be issued for the Forest Service as well as the Bureau of Land Management.

Clarification for the Appropriate Use of a Criminal or a Civil Citation To Enforce Mineral Regulations

Thu, Nov 6 2008 11:00:00 GMT

This final rule amends certain Forest Service regulations to allow, if necessary, for a criminal citation to be issued for unauthorized mineral operations on National Forest System (NFS) lands.

Eastern Washington Cascades Provincial Advisory Committee and the Yakima Provincial Advisory Committee

Thu, Nov 6 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Eastern Washington Cascades Provincial Advisory Committee and the Yakima Provincial Advisory Committee will meet on Thursday, November 20, 2008 at the OkanoganWenatchee National Forest Headquarters office, 215 Melody Lane, Wenatchee, WA. This meeting will begin at 9 a.m. and continue until 3 p.m. During this meeting Provincial Advisory Committee members will share information about their field of representation and receive information about the Dry Forest Strategy, the Northern Spotted Owl Recovery Plan, and the Access Travel Management Plan. All Eastern Washington Cascades
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and Yakima Province Advisory Committee meetings are open to the public.

Sale and Disposal of National Forest Service System Timber; Timber Sale Contracts; Market-Related Contract Term

Tue, Nov 4 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The original Market-Related Contract Term Addition (MRCTA) regulation was adopted in 1990 to provide financial relief to timber sale purchasers during cyclic downturns in forest products markets. However, the current drastic reduction in Forest Product markets, which began in late 2004, revealed several problems with the existing MRCTA regulation. Therefore, this final rule is needed to help ensure that the MRCTA regulation functions as originally intended.

This final rule makes four changes to the MRCTA regulation. First, the regulation now allows more than 3 years to be added to a contract's term pursuant to MRCTA when there is a drastic reduction in wood product prices that lasts for more than 10 out of 12 consecutive quarters. Second, the regulation now gives contracting officers the flexibility needed to assign the most appropriate Bureau of Labor Statistics Producer Price Index (PPI) to a timber sale contract. Third, the regulation now prevents any single 3month MRCTA from extending a

Black Hills National Forest, Bearlodge Ranger District, Sundance, WY--Rattlesnake Forest Management Project

Mon, Nov 3 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Forest Service will prepare an environmental impact statement (EIS) on a proposal to implement multiple resource management actions in the Rattlesnake Project Area to implement the amended Black Hills National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan. The proposed action includes approximately 11,000 acres of commercial timber harvest, 5,000 acres of noncommercial vegetation management, 6,000 acres of prescribed burning, three miles of road construction, road improvements, and watershed improvements. Prescribed burning is proposed in a roadless area.

Notice of Meetings; Black Hills National Forest Advisory Board and Recreation Resource Advisory Committee (Federal

Fri, Oct 31 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Black Hills National Forest Advisory Board (Board), acting in its capacity as the Black Hills National Forest Recreation Resource Advisory Committee (RRAC), will meet in Rapid City, SD. The purposes of the meetings are to consider recommending a business plan and annual, weekly, and commercial vehicle, special recreation permit fees. These fees would include annual permits purchased by the public to use the Black Hills National Forest's designated, motorized, offhighway vehicle trail system. The fees would be established pursuant to Public Law No: 108447 (H.R. 48 118), September 8, 2004, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2005, Title VIII Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act, Section 803 Recreation Fee Authority, (h) Special Recreation Permit Fee.

Sale and Disposal of National Forest System Timber; Downpayment and Periodic Payments

Wed, Oct 29 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Forest Service is proposing to amend the Downpayment rule and the Periodic payments rule to reflect changes in contracting procedures adopted in the April 2004 and June 2006 timber sale contracts. These changes reflect stewardship contracting authorities, and reflect changes in forest products markets since these rules were adopted in 1991. The proposed changes also would remove obsolete references and procedures; make downpayments and periodic payments optional for stewardship contracts; allow downpayment and periodic payment amounts to be recalculated when contracts receive a rate redetermination; revise the procedure for releasing the downpayment; and would allow downpayments to be temporarily reduced when Forest Service authorizes certain additions of contract time.

The intended effect of this proposed rule is to protect the Government's financial security while providing financial relief to timber purchasers during periods when forest products prices drastically decline or purchase

Superior National Forest, LaCroix and Kawishiwi Ranger Districts; Minnesota; Echo Trail Area Forest Management

Tue, Oct 28 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Superior National Forest will prepare a supplement to the Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Echo Trail Area Forest Management Project. The supplement will address water quality and watershed health conditions potentially affected by the project. The project is located on the LaCroix Ranger District, Cook, Minnesota, and Kawishiwi Ranger District, Ely, Minnesota.

Newspapers To Be Used for Publication of Legal Notice of Appealable Decisions and Publication of Notice of Proposed

Tue, Oct 28 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Deciding Officers in the Southern Region will publish notice of decisions subject to administrative appeal under 36 CFR parts 215 and 217 in the legal notice section of the newspapers listed in the Supplementary Information section of this notice. As provided in 36 CFR 215.5 and 36 CFR 217.5(d), the public shall be advised through Federal Register notice, of the newspaper of record to be utilized for publishing legal notice of decisions. Newspaper publication of notice of decisions is in addition to direct notice of decisions to those who have requested it and to those who have participated in project planning. Responsible Officials in the Southern Region will also publish notice of proposed actions under 36 CFR part 215 in the newspapers that are listed in the Supplementary Information section of this notice. As provided in 36 CFR part 215.5, the public shall be advised, through Federal Register notice, of the newspaper of record to be utilized for publishing notices on proposed actions. Addit

Roadless Area Conservation National Advisory Committee

Mon, Oct 27 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Roadless Area Conservation National Advisory Committee will meet in Washington, DC. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the proposed rule for the management of roadless areas on National Forest System lands in the State of Colorado and to discuss other related roadless area matters.

Information Collection; Special Use Administration

Fri, Oct 24 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Deschutes Provincial Advisory Committee (DPAC)

Fri, Oct 24 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Deschutes Provincial Advisory Committee will meet on October 29, 2008, starting at 8 a.m. at the Deschutes National Forest Supervisor's Office, 1001 SW Emkay Drive, Bend, Oregon. There will be a 1 hour business meeting. Then, members will go to the field to the Bend Ft. Rock Ranger District to discuss strategies for the local forest at risk to insects. The trip is scheduled to end at 4:30 p.m. All Deschutes Province Advisory Committee Meetings are open to the public and an open public forum is scheduled from 8:30 to 9 a.m.

Lake Tahoe Basin Federal Advisory Committee

Fri, Oct 24 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Lake Tahoe Basin Federal Advisory Committee will hold a meeting on November 6, 2008 at The Chateau, 955 Fairway Boulevard, Incline Village, NV 89451. This Committee, established by the Secretary of Agriculture on December 15, 1998 (64 FR 2876), is chartered to provide advice to the Secretary on implementing the terms of the Federal Interagency Partnership on the Lake Tahoe Region and other matters raised by the Secretary.

Revision of Land Management Plan for National Forests in Mississippi

Fri, Oct 24 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture is resuming preparation of the National Forests in Mississippi revised land management plan as directed by the National Forest Management Act (NFMA). Preparation of the revised plan was halted when the 2005 Forest Service planning rule was enjoined. A new planning rule (36 CFR Part 219) took effect on April 21, 2008, allowing the planning process to be resumed. This notice marks the resumption of the National Forests in Mississippi plan revision process under the new planning rule.

Administration; Cooperative Funding; Correction

Tue, Oct 21 2008 11:00:00 GMT

This document contains corrections to the final regulations, which were published in the Federal Register of November 8, 1999 (64 FR 60678). The regulations established the minimum requirements applicable to written agreements between the Forest Service and cooperators, such as individuals, States and local governments, and other nonFederal entities. Additionally, this rulemaking implemented amendments to the Act of June 30, 1914, which expanded the basis for accepting contributions for cooperative work, allows reimbursable payments by cooperators, and adequately protects the Government's interest.

Ochoco National Forest, Deschutes National Forest; Invasive Plant Treatment Project

Tue, Oct 21 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The USDA Forest Service will prepare a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SETS) to document and disclose the potential environmental effects of proposed invasive plant treatment activities on the Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest and the Crooked River National Grassland. An FEIS was made available in January 2008. A Record of Decision was signed in January 2008 and subsequently withdrawn. This project evaluates sitespecific treatments of invasive plants; including manual, mechanical, cultural, biological and herbicide treatment methods as well as the use of prescribed fire. Forest Plan direction, including amendments identified in the Pacific Northwest Region Invasive Plant Program Environmental Impact Statement, will be incorporated into all alternatives, including the Proposed Action.

Notice of Meeting; Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act, (Title VIII, Pub. L. 108-447)

Tue, Oct 21 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Pacific Northwest Recreation Resource Advisory Committee will meet in Portland, OR. The purpose of the meeting is to review and provide recommendations on recreation fee proposals for facilities and services offered on lands managed by the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management in Oregon and Washington, under the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act of 2004.

Stewardship Contracting, FSH 2409.19, Chapter 60

Tue, Oct 21 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Forest Service is issuing a final directive to Forest Service Handbook 2409.19, chapter 60, Stewardship Contracting. The directive provides direction to implement the provisions as authorized in the Tribal Forest Protection Act (TFPA) of 2004 (25 U.S.C. 3115a). On December 26, 2006, the Forest Service published in the Federal Register for public notice and comments an interim directive regarding guidance for, TFPA proposals. The agency considered all the comments and made a number of changes to the final directive in response.

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forests; Santa Rosa Ranger District; Martin Basin Rangeland Management Project

Thu, Oct 16 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Santa Rosa Ranger District of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest will prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) on a proposal to authorize continued livestock grazing on National Forest System (NFS) lands within the boundaries administered by the Santa Rosa Ranger District. The Project Area is located in Humboldt County, Nevada.

The preparation of this EIS is needed because the Record of Decision issued on June 2, 2006, for the Martin Basin Rangeland Management Project was appealed, and following review, the decision was reversed. A new EIS is being prepared to completely replace the Draft EIS released in 2004 and the Final EIS released in 2005.

30-Day Pre-decisional Review and Opportunity To Object; Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands Land Management

Thu, Oct 16 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Forest Supervisor for the Pike and San Isabel National Forests and the Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands (PSICC) has made available the Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands Land Management Plan (Grasslands Plan) for a 30 day predecisional review and objection period. The 30day predecisional review and objection period commences the day following the publication of the legal notice in the Pueblo Chieftain, Pueblo, Colorado.

McKelvie Geographic Area Rangeland Allotment Management Plans on National Forest System Lands on the Samuel R.

Wed, Oct 15 2008 11:00:00 GMT

This project would revise Rangeland Allotment Management Plans (RAMP) for all allotments within the McKelvie Geographic Area on the McKelvie National Forest and analyze continuation of grazing within the constraints of the Revised Nebraska Land and Resource Management Plan (NLRMP). A Notice of Intent (NOI) for this project was published May 15, 2006 (71 No. 93 FR 27986). More than six months have elapsed since the projected draft environmental impact statement (DEIS) date in that original NOI. This revised NOI is being issued to update the project schedule.

Conejos Peak Ranger District, Rio Grande National Forest; Colorado; Rio de los Pinos Vegetation Management Project

Fri, Oct 10 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The project analyzes salvage harvesting of spruce beetle killed and infested trees on timber production areas in the Rio de los Pinos watershed. This project will provide an opportunity to improve and relocate the Los Pinos Trailhead (Trail 736). This area was analyzed under the County Line Vegetation Management Project in June 2005, however changing forest conditions have warranted further analysis. An EA was initiated in 2007, and comments received during scoping and controversy surrounding similar projects on the Rio Grande National Forest indicate that an environmental impact statement (EIS) should be prepared.

Kaibab National Forest; AZ; Uranium Exploratory Drilling Project

Fri, Oct 10 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The USDA Forest Service is preparing an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to consider and disclose the effects of proposed exploratory drilling for uranium on National Forest System (NFS) land. The proposed exploratory drilling project would occur on mining claims held by VANE Minerals, Inc. and Uranium One (with all exploratory drilling to be completed by VANE Minerals, Inc.) in the Tusayan Ranger District, Kaibab National Forest within Townships 27, 28, 29 and 30 North, Ranges 2, 3, 4 and 5 East, Gila and Salt River Meridian, Coconino County, Arizona. Exploration is proposed by VANE Minerals, Inc. to determine whether uranium deposits exist on these mining claims. A total of 25 drill sites are planned by VANE Minerals, Inc. Shallow drill holes would be drilled to determine whether or not ``breccia pipes'' occur at the site. Breccia pipes are the geologic formations found in the Colorado Plateau region that can contain uranium minerals. Deep drill holes would be drilled to confirm the pres

Notice of Meeting; Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act (Title VIII, Pub. L. 108-447)

Fri, Oct 10 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Black Hills National Forest Advisory Board, acting in its capacity as the Black Hills National Forest Recreation Resource Advisory Committee (RRAC), will meet in Rapid City, SD. The purpose of the meeting is for the Committee to consider recommending special recreation permit fees to use the Black Hills National Forest's designated, motorized, offhighway vehicle trail system. Fees would include a $20.00 weekly permit, a $40.00 annual permit, and a $100.00 commercial vehicle annual permit. The fees would be established pursuant to Public Law 108447 (H.R. 48 118), September 8, 2004, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2005, Title VillFederal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act, Section 803 Recreation Fee Authority, (h) Special Recreation Permit Fee.

Notice of New Fee Site; Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act (Title VIII, Pub. L. 108-447)

Fri, Oct 10 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests is planning to charge a $5 per site per night fee for overnight camping at Hickey Gap Campground. The fees listed are only proposed and will be determined upon further analysis and public comment. This campground has five campsites and has been available for camping use prior to this date. Campgrounds on the ChattahoocheeOconee National Forests have shown that people appreciate and enjoy the availability of outdoor camping facilities. Funds from the campground will be used for the continued operation and maintenance of Hickey Gap Campground.

Opal Creek Scenic Recreation Area (SRA) Advisory Council

Fri, Oct 10 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Willamette National Forest is seeking nominees for six positions on the Opal Creek Advisory Council. The Council was originally established in June 2000 with 13 members. About half of the current members will remain on the Council to provide continuity for new members.

The Advisory Council makes recommendations to the Detroit District Ranger on matters relating to the management of the Opal Creek Scenic Recreation Area (SRA).

The Advisory Council is composed of a diverse group of citizens, which allows for sharing of technical knowledge and personal experience. Members represent interests including, but not limited to: Timber industry; environmental organizations; mining industry; SRA land inholders within the Opal Creek Wilderness and SRA; economic development interests; and Indian tribes. Other members serving on the Council as required by the Act represent Marion County, communities within a 25 mile radius of the SRA, State of Oregon, and City of Salem.

Positions to be filled

Dakota Prairie Grasslands; North Dakota; Dakota Prairie Grasslands Land and Resource Plan Amendment and Site Specific

Wed, Oct 8 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The purpose of this notice is to inform the public that the Forest Service intends to prepare an environmental impact statement for amending the Dakota Prairie Grasslands Land and Resource Management Plan (DPG Plan) pursuant to 16 U.S.C. 1604(f)(5) and 36 CFR 219.12. This includes approving certain site specific projects associated with the same lands.

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Planning Act (RPA) and the National Forest Management Act (NFMA) are among the laws that set forth the requirements for Forest Service planning. This DPG Plan amendment will determine management direction including landuse determinations, management area prescriptions, and standards and guidelines.

The need for the DPG Plan amendment results from the recent acquisition of 5,200 acres of private land, the majority of which lie in a solid block east of the Little Missouri River in Billings County, North Dakota. Site specific project proposals relate to

National Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Council

Wed, Oct 8 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The National Urban and Community Foresty Advisory Council, (NUCFAC), is charged, by law, to provide recommendations to the Secretary of Agriculture on urban forestry related issues and opportunities. Part of the Council's role is to recommend the criteria for the U.S. Forest Service's Urban and Community Forestry, (U&CF) Challenge Cost Share Grant Program.

NUCFAC is revising their criteria for the U.S. Forest Service's U&CF Challenge Cost Share Grant Program for 2009. The new U&CF Challenge Cost Share Grant Program is designed to reflect this change, and implement new procedures that reduce the paperwork burden on potential grantees. Grants for 2009 will be solicited in two categories:

Innovation Grants

NUCFAC anticipates recommending a small number of significant grants intended to address, on a national or regional level, the highest priority issues confronting the UC&F community. NUCFAC will seek proposals from organizations and partnerships that demonstrate the reach, resources and

Klamath National Forest, CA, Klamath National Forest Motorized Route Designation EIS

Tue, Oct 7 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Klamath National Forest (Klamath NF) will prepare an Environmental Impact Statement to disclose the impacts associated with the following proposed actions:

1. The prohibition of crosscountry motorized vehicle travel (with the exception of snowmobiles) off designated National Forest System (NFS) roads, trails, and areas by the public except as allowed by permit or other authorization (Travel Management Rule, 36 CFR Part 212 Subpart B).

2. Make a nonsignificant amendment to the Klamath NF Land and Resource Management Plan (Klamath Forest Plan) to conform with the Travel Management Rule, Subpart B, by removing reference to OHV cross country travel in the Forest Plan and including a Forestwide standard: ``Prohibit motorized vehicle travel (with the exception of snowmobiles) off designated roads, trails and areas except as allowed by permit or other authorization.''

3. Add approximately 54 miles (84 segments) of existing unauthorized routes to the National Forest Transportation System

Eastern Washington Cascades Provincial Advisory Committee and the Yakima Provincial Advisory Committee

Mon, Oct 6 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Eastern Washington Cascades Provincial Advisory Committee and the Yakima Provincial Advisory Committee will meet on Thursday, October 23, 2008 at the OkanoganWenatchee National Forest Headquarters office, 215 Melody Lane, Wenatchee, WA. This meeting will begin at 9 a.m. and continue until 3 p.m. During this meeting Provincial Advisory Committee members will share information on new developments relating to the Northwest Forest Plan, receive an update on the Access Travel Management Plan and the Recreation Facilities Analysis Master Plan, and offer input on the future role of the Provincial Advisory Committee. All Eastern Washington Cascades and Yakima Province Advisory Committee meetings are open to the public.

Notice of Meeting; Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act (Title VIII, Pub. L. 108-447)

Tue, Sep 30 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Pacific Southwest Recreation Resource Advisory Committee (Recreation RAC) will hold a meeting in Sacramento, California. The purpose of this meeting is to make recommendations for fee proposals on lands managed by the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management in California. The Recreation RRAC will consider fee proposals for increases in expanded amenity fees and the elimination of an expanded amenity fee from the Klamath National Forest. In addition presentations will be made on Recreation Facility Analysis, campground concessionaire program and future fee concepts from the Forest Service.

Notice of Proposed New Fee Sites; Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act, (Title VIII, Pub. L. 108-447)

Mon, Sep 29 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Boise National Forest is planning to charge fees at two recreation sites. Fees are assessed based on the level of amenities and services provided, cost of operation and maintenance, market assessment, and public comment. The fees listed are currently proposed and will be determined upon further analysis and public comment. Funds from fees would be used for the continued operation and maintenance of these recreation sites.

The bunkhouse at the Dutch Creek Guard Station will be available for overnight rental. In consideration of the fees for similar Forest Service facilities and other location factors, the tentative cabin rental fee was set at $45 per night. Guard station rental cabins offer unique experiences and are a popular offering in National Forests. Two other cabins at this guard station have been available for public rental for a number of years and are rented approximately 50 nights during the snowfree season. This facility will expand rental opportunities in that it will make a

Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest; Wisconsin, Grub Hoe Vegetation and Transportation Management Project

Wed, Sep 24 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Eagle River-Florence Ranger District intends to prepare an environmental impact statement (EIS) to disclose the environmental consequences of proposed vegetation and transportation management activities. The Grub Hoe Vegetation and Transportation Management Project (Grub Hoe Project) area is approximately 11,640 acres in size; about 8,500 acres of this is National Forest System land. The project area is located in Florence County, 15 miles southwest of Florence, Wisconsin. The legal description is T39N, R15E, Sections 1, 2, 817, 2224; T39N, R16E, Sections 57, 18, 19. See the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section for the purpose and need for the action.

Notice of Final Flat Fee Policy for Outfitting and Guiding Land Use Fees in the Alaska Region

Wed, Sep 24 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Alaska Region of the Forest Service is publishing a final regional flat fee policy. The initial proposal was published in the Federal Register on September 15, 2006 (71 FR 54454). The revised policy published April 18, 2008 (73 FR 21098) differed enough from the initial proposed policy to merit public notice and comment.

Lake Tahoe Basin Federal Advisory Committee

Wed, Sep 24 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Secretary of Agriculture has renewed the charter of the Lake Tahoe Federal Advisory Committee. Chartered under the Federal Advisory Committee Act, the Committee provides advice to the Secretary of Agriculture and to the Federal Interagency Partnership on how the Partnership can best fulfill its duties, pursuant to Executive Order 13057, to protect the extraordinary natural, recreational, and ecological resources in the Lake Tahoe Region.

Notice of Intent To Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement

Tue, Sep 23 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Forest Service will prepare a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (Draft EIS) to evaluate the environmental impacts of authorizing LeavellMcCombs Joint Venture (LMJV) to access 287.5 acres of private property surrounded by National Forest System land. The Forest Service must provide adequate access for the reasonable use and enjoyment of private land. LMJV intends to construct a resort and other facilities known as the Village at Wolf Creek on their property, which lies entirely within the Wolf Creek Ski Area. An alternative that evaluates combining the access for both the Village at Wolf Creek and the Wolf Creek Ski Area into a single gradeseparated interchange will be analyzed.

Information Collection; Day Use on Urban National Forests

Fri, Sep 19 2008 11:00:00 GMT

In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, the Forest Service is seeking comments from all interested individuals and organizations on the extension with no revision of a currently approved information collection, Day Use on the National Forests of Southern California.

Roadless Area Conservation National Advisory Committee

Fri, Sep 19 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Roadless Area Conservation National Advisory Committee will meet in Salt Lake City, Utah. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the proposed rule for the management of roadless areas on National Forest System lands in the State of Colorado and to discuss other related roadless area matters.

Revised Land and Resource Management Plan: Kiowa, Rita Blanca, Black Kettle, and McClellan Creek National Grasslands;

Fri, Sep 19 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Forest Service is revising the Land and Resource Management Plan (hereafter referred to as Grasslands Plan) for the Kiowa, Rita Blanca, Black Kettle, and McClellan Creek National Grasslands. This notice describes the documents available for review and how to obtain them; summarizes the need to change the Grasslands Plan; provides information concerning public participation and collaboration, including the process for submitting comments; provides an estimated schedule for the planning process, including the time available for comments; and includes the names and addresses of agency officials who can provide additional information.

Special Areas; Roadless Area Conservation; Applicability to the National Forests in Colorado, Regulatory Risk

Thu, Sep 18 2008 11:00:00 GMT

On July 25, 2008, the Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, proposed to establish a Statespecific rule to provide management direction for conserving Colorado roadless areas (73 FR 43544). This proposed rule is estimated to have more than $100,000,000 of economic impact. The proposed rule would satisfy the economic impact and subject matter criteria of 7 U.S.C. 2204e and thus requires a regulatory risk assessment. The Forest Service is seeking comment on the assessment. A copy of the Regulatory Risk Assessment is available at the national roadless Web site http://www.roadless.fs.fed.us.

National Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Council

Wed, Sep 17 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The National Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Council will meet in San Diego, California, October 1416, 2008. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss emerging issues in urban and community forestry and hear public input related to urban and community forestry.

Predecisional Administrative Review Process for Hazardous Fuel Reduction Projects Authorized Under the Healthy

Wed, Sep 17 2008 11:00:00 GMT

This document makes final the interim rule that was published on January 9, 2004, with minor changes to both parts 215 and 218. This rule establishes a process by which the public may file objections to seek administrative review of proposed hazardous fuel reduction projects authorized by the Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2003 (HFRA), Public Law 108148. Section 105 of the act directs the Secretary of Agriculture to publish final regulations following public comment on the interim final regulations. This final rule refines the HFRA objection procedures based on public comment and agency experience applying the interim final rule. These changes add clarity to the procedural direction, describe authorized hazardous fuel reduction projects not subject to objection, clarify notification requirements, clarify the eligibility criteria for who may file an objection, provide for the incorporation of certain documents into objections by reference, and clarify how timeliness of objection filing will

Determination of Substantial Overriding Public Interest for Extending Certain Timber Sale Contracts

Wed, Sep 17 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Pursuant to section 472a(c) of the National Forest Management Act of 1976 (NFMA), and the authority delegated at 7 CFR 2.20, the Under Secretary of Agriculture for Natural Resources and Environment has determined that the substantial overriding public interest (SOPI) justifies the use of marketrelated contract term adjustments (MRCTA) to extend beyond 10 years, certain existing green timber sale contracts tied to Softwood Lumber index 0811 and Hardwood Lumber index 0812 that were awarded prior to January 1, 2007. This SOPI determination is based on the sustained drastic reduction in softwood lumber prices since 2004 and the more recent hardwood lumber decline.

Forest Certification and Its Implications for America's National Forests

Wed, Sep 17 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The USDA, Forest Service is seeking comments on forest certification and its implications for America's national forests. This Federal Register notice is to serve as a formal public solicitation of views on the question of National Forest System certification and its implications, if national forest lands were to become certified under one or both of the two major certification systems being used in the United States. The U.S. Forest Service, which manages 193 million acres, or approximately eight percent of the nation's land, believes that it is important to better understand the implications of third party certification of National Forest System (NFS) lands and, in 2005, began exploring independent, third party certification as a potential option. To this end, the Forest Service initiated the National Forest Certification Study, which resulted in the report, ``National Forest Certification Study: An Evaluation of the Application of Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and Sustainable Forestry Init

Final Directives for Forest Service Outfitting and Guiding Special Use Permits and Insurance Requirements for Forest

Wed, Sep 17 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Forest Service is revising directives governing special use permits for outfitting and guiding conducted on National Forest System lands by simplifying the application and administrative process; establishing a flat land use fee for temporary use permits; developing a process for allocation of use on a firstcome, firstserved or lottery basis for temporary use permits to facilitate greater participation in outfitting and guiding by youth, educational, and religious groups; offering the same terms and conditions to educational and institutional permit holders as offered to other types of permit holders when they operate as a business; and clarifying policy for priority use permits governing performance, inspections, and allocation of use. In addition, the Forest Service is revising the directives governing insurance requirements for Forest Service special use permits. Public comment was considered in the development of the final directives, and a response to comments is included in this notic

Huron-Manistee National Forests, Michigan, White Pines Wind Farm Project

Fri, Sep 12 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Forest Service has accepted an application for a special use authorization from White Pines Wind Farm LLC for the installation and operation of 20 to 28 wind turbines and associated infrastructure to provide between 50 and 70 megawatts (MW) of wind energy on National Forest System (NFS) lands managed by the HuronManistee National Forests. The White Pines Wind Farm Project (the Project) would occupy approximately 75 acres of NFS land within a Project Area of about 10,000 acres on the CadillacManistee Ranger District over its proposed 30year life.

Request for Proposals for Woody Biomass Utilization Grant--Forest Restoration Activities on National Forest System

Thu, Sep 11 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The USDA Forest Service, State and Private Forestry, Technology Marketing Unit, located at the Forest Products Laboratory, requests proposals for forest product projects that increase the use of woody biomass from National Forest System lands. The woody biomass utilization grant program is intended to help improve forest restoration activities by using and creating markets for smalldiameter material and lowvalued trees removed from forest restoration activities, such as reducing hazardous fuels, handling insect and diseased conditions, or treating forestlands impacted by catastrophic weather events. These funds are targeted to help communities, entrepreneurs, and others turn residues from forest restoration activities into marketable forest products and/or energy products.

Notice of Meeting; Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act, (Title VIII, Pub. L. 108-447)

Wed, Sep 10 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Eastern Region Recreation Resource Advisory Committee will hold its fourth meeting at the Crowne Plaza, 5700 E. 28th St. SE., Grand Rapids, MI, on October 8, 2008. The purpose of the meeting is to receive recommendations concerning recreation fee proposals on areas managed by the Forest Service in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, New York, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Minnesota, Michigan and Wisconsin; and to discuss other items of interest related to the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act of 2004.

A final detailed agenda, with any additions/corrections to agenda topics, location, field trips and meeting times, will be sent to regional media sources at least 14 days before the meeting, and hard copies can also be mailed or sent via FAX. Individuals who need special assistance such as sign language interpretation or other reasonable accommodations, or who wish a hard copy of the agenda, should contact Marcia Heymen at 4142973662 (voice) or 414944396

Dry Fork Vegetative Restoration Project, Lewis and Clark National Forest, Cascade and Judith Basin Counties, MT

Tue, Sep 9 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The USDA Forest Service is withdrawing the Notice of Intent to prepare a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement for the Dry Fork [[Page 52262]]
Vegetative Restoration project on the Belt Creek Ranger District of the Lewis and Clark National Forest. A Notice of Intent to prepare a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement was published in the Federal Register on October 27, 2005 (pages 6027460275).

Dated: August 27, 2008.
Lesley W. Thompson,
Forest Supervisor.
[FR Doc. E820746 Filed 9808; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 341011M

Lake Tahoe Basin Federal Advisory Committee

Tue, Sep 9 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Lake Tahoe Basin Federal Advisory Committee will hold meetings on September 16, 2008 and September 22, 2008 or September 23, 2008 at the U.S. Forest Service Office, 35 College Drive, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150. This Committee, established by the Secretary of Agriculture on December 15, 1998 (64 FR 2876), is chartered to provide advice to the Secretary on implementing the terms of the Federal Interagency Partnership on the Lake Tahoe Region and other matters raised by the Secretary.

Meeting of the Land Between The Lakes Advisory Board

Tue, Sep 9 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Land Between The Lakes Advisory Board will hold a meeting on Thursday, October 2, 2008. Notice of this meeting is given under the Federal Advisory Committee Act, 5 U.S.C. App.2.

The meeting agenda includes the following:
(1) Welcome/Introductions;
(2) Members visit areas in Land Between The Lakes;
(3) Board discussion on morning visits relating to dispersed recreation/education;
(4) Update on Nature Watch;
(5) LBL Updates;

(6) Board Discussion of Comments Received.

The meeting is open to the public. Written comments are invited and may be mailed to: William P. Lisowsky, Area Supervisor, Land Between The Lakes, 100 Van Morgan Drive, Golden Pond, Kentucky 42211. Written comments must be received at Land Between The Lakes by September 25, 2008, in order for copies to be provided to the members at the meeting. Board members will review written comments received, and at their request, oral clarification may be requested at a future meeting.

Recreation Resource Advisory Committees

Mon, Sep 8 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Secretary of Agriculture intends to renew five Forest Service Recreation Resource Advisory Committees (Recreation RACs) pursuant to Section 4 of the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act passed into law as part of the 2005 Consolidated Appropriations Act (Pub. L. 108447) on December 8, 2004. The Recreation RACs operate in the Pacific Northwest, Pacific Southwest, Eastern, and Southern Regions of the Forest Service and the State of Colorado, and provide recreation fee recommendations to both the Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) as appropriate. As required by the Federal Advisory Committee Act, charters for Federal advisory committees must be renewed every two years.

Ashland Ranger District Travel Management Planning, Custer National Forest; Powder River and Rosebud Counties, MT

Fri, Sep 5 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Forest Service plans to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to disclose the effects of designating National Forest System roads, trails, and areas available for public motorized use on the Ashland Ranger District (District), Custer National Forest. The decision will determine whether to add to or remove routes from the current network of National Forest System roads, trails, and areas for public motorized use on the District; designate the season of use and type of vehicle use for each road, trail, and area designated for public motorized use; and identify dispersed vehicle camping designations.

Once a decision is made, a Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) will be prepared and distributed in compliance with the Forest Service's 2005 Motorized Travel Management Rule (36 CFR 212). The MVUM will show all routes and areas that are designated for public motorized use on the District. The MVUM will be the primary tool used for enforcement of motorized vehicle use designations on the gro

Sioux Ranger District Travel Management Plan, Custer National Forest; Carter County, MT and Harding County, SD

Fri, Sep 5 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Forest Service intends to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to disclose the effects of designating National Forest System roads, trails, and areas available for public motorized use on the Sioux Ranger District (District), Custer National Forest. The decision will determine whether to add to or remove routes from the current network of National Forest System roads, trails, and areas for public motorized use on the District; designate the season of use and type of vehicle use for each road, trail, and area designated for public motorized use; and identify dispersed vehicle camping designations.

Sale and Disposal of National Forest Service System Timber; Timber Sale Contracts; Market-Related Contract Term

Wed, Sep 3 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Forest Service proposes amending its regulations to expand the maximum amount of additional time certain contracts may receive when there is a continuous and prolonged drastic reduction in wood product prices for 2\1/2\ years or longer. Additionally, the proposed rule modifies the procedure for selecting the producer price index to be used in establishing marketrelated contract term additions and emergency rate redeterminations. Finally, this proposed rule makes a change to the amount of additional marketrelated contract term addition time that may be added to timber sale contracts when the normal operating season specified in a contract is less than three months.

Notice of Proposed New Fee Sites and Fee Increase at Existing Fee Sites; Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act

Wed, Sep 3 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Fremont-Winema National Forests are planning to start charging fees at ten recreation campground sites, and increase camp fees at three existing fee sites and five recreation cabin rentals. The Forest is committed to responsibly serving the public by efficiently operating and, when necessary, modifying the services to ensure developed recreation sites are managed to health and safety standards, and provide recreation opportunities strategically across the Forests. As demographics change and new challenges are presented, it is the Forest's responsibility to respond and ensure that appropriate recreation services and facilities are available to the public.Fees are assessed based on the level of amenities and services provided, cost of operation and maintenance, market assessment and public comment. The fees listed are only proposed and will be determined upon further analysis and public comment. Funds from fees would be used for the continued operation and maintenance of these recreation site

Cibola National Forest; New Mexico; McKinley County Easement for Forest Roads 191 and 191D

Fri, Aug 29 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Agriculture, Forest Service has initiated the process to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for a road easement issuance to McKinley County for Forest Roads (FRs) 191 and 191D. The proposed action would grant an easement to McKinley County for FRs 191 and 191D and reassign an existing easement (dated December 21, 2001, from David Polich et al.) to the Forest Service across private land within Section 9, T 13 N, R 16 W, NMPM to McKinley County. The granting of the rightofway allows McKinley County to upgrade the roads and take over their maintenance. The upgrade would make these portions of FR 191 and FR191D, approximately 2.78 miles, allweather roads.

Forest Vegetation Resource Planning

Thu, Aug 28 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Forest Service is issuing an interim directive to Forest Service Handbook 1909.12, chapter 60, to guide agency employees on timber and forest vegetation resource planning, including guidance on identifying lands generally suitable for timber production and long term sustainedyield capacity. This interim directive revises Forest Service Handbook 1902.1260, issued January 31, 2006. The intended effect of issuance of this interim directive is to provide consistent overall guidance to Forest Service line officers and agency employees in developing, amending, or revising land management plans for units of the National Forest System regarding forest vegetation resource planning. Public comment is invited and will be considered in developing a final directive.

Motorized Vehicle Use on the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest

Tue, Aug 26 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest (Forest) will prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to document and disclose the potential environmental effects of establishing and designating a system of roads, trails and areas for wheeled motorized vehicles. The Proposed Action would designate the location, type of vehicle and season of use for motorized vehicles
[[Page 50300]]
across the entire Forest in order to meet the intent of the Travel Management; Designated Routes and Areas for Motor Vehicle Use, Final Rule that was published on November 9, 2005 (70 FR 216). Overthesnow vehicles are excluded from this Proposed Action. A Forest Plan Amendment would be required to achieve the purpose and need, and implement the Proposed Action.

Sequoia National Forest, Western Divide Ranger District;

Tue, Aug 26 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The proposed project is to reduce surface and ladder fuels on approximately 1,574 acres by constructing fuel breaks, treating planted stands, and prescribed burning between planted stands and fuel breaks. The purpose of the project is to respond to a proposal from the Tule River Tribal Council under the Tribal Forest Protection Act and to reduce the spread of wildland fire starting on the Sequoia National Forest or private lands onto the Tule River Indian Reservation.

Notice of Proposed New Fee Sites; Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act, (Title VIII, Pub. L. 108-447)

Mon, Aug 25 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Willamette National Forest is planning to charge a fee at Benson Lake Trailhead and adjacent Scott Lake Campground beginning the summer of 2009. Benson Lake Trailhead was in the recreation fee demonstration project prior to 2005, and fees are being reestablished to help maintain facilities and services including toilet, picnic tables, garbage collection, interpretive and informational signing, and visitor security. A $5 day use fee is being proposed and recreation passes would be honored including: The Northwest Forest Pass, Interagency Passes and Golden Passports.

Implementation Date: New fees would begin in August 2009.

Pacific Northwest Recreation Resource Advisory Committee

Thu, Aug 21 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Nominations are being sought for certain positions to serve on the Pacific Northwest Recreation Resource Advisory Committees (Recreation RAC). New members will be appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture (Secretary) and serve threeyear terms. Appointments will begin in February 2009 when current member appointments expire.

One member is being sought to represent each of the following interests: Winter Nonmotorized, Summer Nonmotorized, Local Environmental, State Tourism, and Affected Local Governments. The public is invited to submit nominations for membership on the Recreation RAC. Current members who have only served one term may also apply. Application packets for Recreation RACs can be obtained from the Forest Service Pacific Northwest Regional Office listed below or on the Web at http://www.fs.fed.us/passespermits/rrac. All nominations must include

Notice of Meeting; Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act (Title VIII, Pub. L. 108-447)

Thu, Aug 21 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Southern Region Recreation Resource Advisory Committee will hold its fourth meeting in Harrisonburg, Virginia, on September 2425, 2008. The purpose of the meeting is to receive recommendations concerning recreation fee proposals on areas managed by the Forest Service in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and the territory of Puerto Rico; and to discuss other items of interest related to the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act of 2004.

Information Collection; Extending the Forest Service Message to Diverse Urban Publics

Fri, Aug 15 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Notice of Proposed New Fee Sites; Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act, (Title VIII, Pub. L. 108-447)

Fri, Aug 15 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Sawtooth National Forest is proposing to charge fees at three camping areas on the Fairfield Ranger District, four campgrounds on the Minidoka Ranger District, and two cabins on the Sawtooth National Recreation Area.

Fees are assessed based on the level of amenities and services provided, cost of operation and maintenance, cost comparison for similar facilities, and public comment. The fees listed are proposed and will be finalized upon further analysis and public comment. Funds from fees would be used to maintain the recreation facilities and sites where they are collected.

On the Fairfield Ranger District, The Baumgartner Group Use Campground, and the overnight campsites at the Willow Creek and Bear Creek Transfer Camps (all currently free use sites) are being proposed as fee sites. These sites have the same amenities offered at other developed campgrounds on the Sawtooth and adjacent National Forests. The proposed fee to help maintain the Baumgartner Group use site is $125 a nigh

Cibola National Forest, Mount Taylor Ranger District, NM, Designation of the Proposed Rinconada Communication Site

Thu, Aug 14 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Cibola National Forest will prepare an environmental impact statement to assess the designation and development of the proposed Rinconada Communication Site on the Mt. Taylor Ranger District. The Forest Service proposes to designate a threeacre Rinconada Communication Site that would serve present and future high power communication needs, and to permit the development of a facility within the site.

Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests; Arizona; Heber Wild Horse Territory Plan

Wed, Aug 13 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Forest Service will prepare a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) to evaluate the environmental impacts of developing and implementing a Territory Plan for the Heber Wild Horse Territory.

Notice of New Fee Site; Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act

Wed, Aug 13 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Allegheny National Forest is planning to charge from $100- $150 per night fee for rental of the Farnsworth Cabin. This cabin has not been available to the public for recreation use prior to Spring 2009. This historic cabin was built by the Civilian Conservation Corp in the 1940's. Rentals of other cabins on the Allegheny National Forest have shown that the public appreciates and enjoys the availability of historic rental cabins.

Shasta-Trinity National Forest, California; Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement for the Pilgrim Vegetation

Fri, Aug 8 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Shasta-Trinity National Forest will prepare a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SETS) for the Pilgrim Vegetation Management Project to present additional information consistent with the court ruling Conservation Congress v. Forest Service, Case No. 07 0264 (E.D. Cal., May 13, 2008). This action will require modification of the current Project Level Management Indicator Assemblage Report for the Pilgrim Vegetation Management Project dated February 15, 2007.

Shasta-Trinity National Forest, California; Shasta-Trinity National Forest Motorized Travel Management EIS

Fri, Aug 8 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Shasta-Trinity National Forest (Forest) will prepare an Environmental Impact Statement to disclose the impacts associated with the following proposed actions:

1. Prohibition of crosscountry motorized vehicle travel (with the exception of snowmobiles) off designated National Forest System (NFS) roads, NFS trails and areas by the public except as allowed by permit or other authorization (Travel Management Rule, 36 CFR Part 212, Subpart B).

2. Amend the Forest Land and Resource Management Plan (Plan) to conform with the Travel Management Rule, Subpart B, by removing reference to OHV crosscountry travel in the Forest Plan and include as a forestwide standard ``Prohibit wheeled vehicle travel off designated roads and trails except for administrative use or uses under permitted activities or within designated areas.''

3. Add approximately 32 miles of existing unauthorized routes to the National Forest Transportation System (NFTS) as roads open to the public for wheeled motorized vehicl

Sensitive Species and Endangered Species Act Section 7 Consultation Policy for National Forest System Land Management

Fri, Aug 8 2008 11:00:00 GMT

The Forest Service has issued an interim directive (ID) 2670- 20081 to the Forest Service Manual 2670, sections 45 and 46, to clarify sensitive species and Endangered Species Act policy responsibilities of Forest Supervisors and District Rangers when developing, amending, or revising Land Management Plans (LMPs) under the 2008 Planning Rule, or carrying out projects and activities consistent with those LMPs (36 CFR part 219).

Eastern Recreation Resource Advisory Committee

Tue, Aug 5 2008 11:00:00 GMT

Nominations are being sought for certain positions to serve on the Recreation Resource Advisory Committee (Recreation RAC) operating in the Eastern Region of the Forest Service. New members will be appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture (Secretary) and serve three year terms. Appointments will begin in February 2009 when current member appointments expire.

One member is being sought to represent each of the following interests: (1) Summer Motorized Recreation, (2) Hunting/Fishing, (3) Nonmotorized Outfitters/Guides, (4) Motorized Outfitters/Guides or Local Environmental Groups, (5) Affected Indian Tribes, and (6) Affected Local Governments.

The public is invited to submit nominations for membership on the Recreation RAC. Current members who have only served one term may also apply. Application packets for Recreation RACs can be obtained from the Forest Service Eastern Regional Office listed below or on the Web at